We spend so much time on our feet that we often disregard aches and pains, such as heel pain, as ‘normal’ symptoms from everyday activities such as exercise and work. If you ask your family, friends or gym buddies, you might be surprised with how many are similarly suffering. Those aches and pains are not normal and usually a sign, you’re overdue for a check-up with your Podiatrist.
WHAT IS HEEL PAIN?
One of the most common conditions we encounter at My Family Podiatry is heel pain. The descriptions of the pain can range from a stabbing pain under the heel with the first few steps after resting through to a constant pain under the foot. Regardless of the description of the pain, it can be quite debilitating. There are many different possible causes for this pain with the most common being plantar fasciitis (sometimes referred to as heel spurs).
WHAT CAUSES HEEL PAIN?
Plantar fasciitis involves the development of microtears through the plantar fascia, a band of connective tissue that runs underneath the foot. These microtears develop secondary to excessive load being placed through the plantar fascia, which can result from:
- A significant increase in exercise levels without appropriate conditioning
- Poor foot biomechanics
- A sudden traumatic event to the foot (slipping or tripping and landing heavily on the foot)
- Extended periods of time spent on the feet
- Poor footwear
HOW DO YOU TREAT HEEL PAIN?
The good news is heel pain is totally treatable. It involves reducing the load being placed through the damaged structure and increasing its ability to handle load in the future. At My Family Podiatry, we conduct a full biomechanical assessment to determine the cause of the heel pain and then devise a treatment and management plan aimed at getting you pain free as soon as possible.
Treatment options can include:
- Custom orthotics to improve the biomechanical function of your feet
- Shockwave Therapy to promote healing through the plantar fascia
- Plantar fascia loading exercises to condition these structures for future load
- Strapping of the foot to offload the damaged structures
- A tailored stretching regime to reduce the risk of reinjuring the plantar fascia
We recognise that no two cases are the same, therefore each person is provided with a tailored management plan to suit their lifestyle.
For more information on heel pain, book an appointment with the team at My Family Podiatry through the button below or by calling 3088 6116.
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