Foot injuries can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they disrupt your daily life or fitness routine. While some foot issues resolve quickly, others can linger for months if not properly treated. Below, West Hartford Podiatry Associates explores three common foot injuries that take a long time to heal and provides the important info you need to know for safe and effective recoveries.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, occurs when the thick band of tissue running across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed.

  • Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially with the first morning steps.
  • Healing Time: 3 to 12 months, depending on severity and treatment.
  • Treatment Tips: Rest, orthotic insoles, stretching exercises, and night splints can help. In severe cases, Extracorporeal Sound Wave Therapy, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections may be indicated.

2. Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone, often caused by repetitive force or overuse, especially in high-impact activities.

  • Symptoms: Localized pain, swelling, and tenderness that worsen with activity.
  • Healing Time: 6 to 8 weeks, but may take longer without proper rest.
  • Treatment Tips: Immobilization, rest from weight-bearing activities, and proper nutrition (especially calcium and vitamin D) are key to healing.

3. Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone and is vital for walking, running, and jumping. Tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes irritated.

  • Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the heel, especially after activity.
  • Healing Time: 3 to 6 months or more.
  • Treatment Tips: Icing, rest, heel lifts, stretching, Extracorporeal Sound Wave Therapy, and physical therapy may be needed. Avoid sudden increases in physical activity.

Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and patience are essential for a full recovery when it comes to the above injuries. If you need guidance after a foot injury, come see the professionals at West Hartford Podiatry Associates. Dr. Marc Lederman and Dr. Kurt Rode treat ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, neuromas, and more. If you’re in need of emergency services, we can treat you faster than an urgent care clinic! Contact us online for your foot and ankle needs, or call (860) 236-2564. Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.