Heel Pain

About one in 10 adults 50 and older suffers heel pain, affecting their mobility and quality of life. At Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, with three offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the board-certified podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons specialize in heel pain treatment. Using a conservative, patient-centered approach, they know what it takes to stop heel pain and prevent it from worsening. Call Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, today to schedule heel pain treatment, or book your visit online.

Should I be concerned about heel pain?

Most people experience occasional heel pain. But if your symptoms continue for more than a few days or interfere with your routine, identifying the underlying cause is essential. Common causes of heel pain, like plantar fasciitis, often get worse without treatment. However, prompt intervention encourages healing.

What are some common causes of heel pain?

The Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, team treats heel pain caused by various problems, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinitis
• Bone spurs
• Sever’s disease (heel pain affecting children 8-14)
• Bursitis
• Inflamed tendons (tendinitis)
• Bone bruises

Sometimes, heel pain is caused by stress fractures. These injuries cause tiny breaks in the heel bone, often brought about by overuse or general wear-and-tear.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

Your Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain occurs, what it feels like, and if it extends into other areas like your forefoot or ankle.

They complete a physical exam, checking the front, back, and bottom of your heel for bruising and redness. Your provider assesses your ankle’s range of motion and gently presses on the bottom and sides of your heel to identify sensitive areas.

Your provider orders X-rays or a diagnostic ultrasound if they suspect an underlying problem, like a fracture or inflamed tendons, is causing your pain.

How is heel pain treated?

The Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, team treats heel pain using conservative, patient-centered methods. They might suggest:

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and pain
• Custom-fitted orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Ice and rest
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Athletic tape to support your foot’s arch or heel

Most heel pain improves with a combination of treatments. But if your symptoms continue or get worse, you could benefit from foot and ankle surgery. The team offers minimally invasive surgery and open orthopedic surgery.

What can I do to prevent heel pain?

Wear comfortable shoes that support your feet to reduce your risk of heel pain. If you run or play sports, always warm up before exercise and cool down after. It’s also crucial that you don’t overdo it. If your heel hurts, don’t be afraid to take some time off to rest and recuperate. Playing through the pain can only make things worse.

Call Frankford Podiatry Associates, PC, today to prevent your heel pain from getting worse, or book your visit online.