Treatment Options for Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of heel pain, according to the American Podiatric Association. This condition is likewise known as heel spur syndrome if a heel spur accompanies it. However, heel pain could also result from other causes like tendonitis, stress fractures, nerve irritation, arthritis, or in rare cases, a cyst.

This means that a proper diagnosis with your podiatrist in our Winter Haven, FL, Lakeland, FL, or, Davenport, FL, office, Dr. Tatiana Wellens or Dr. Maria Jaramillo of Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, LLC is important. Until then, learn how you can treat your heel pain below.

Conservative Treatments for Heel Pain Relief

• Avoid walking around barefoot. Doing so could place undue stress and strain on your affected heel.
• Stretch it out. Stretching exercises can help alleviate your pain and aid in recovery.
• Limit your physical activities to give your painful heel some much-needed rest.
• Ice the pain away. Placing an ice pack on the affected heel for at least 20 minutes three to four times daily helps minimize pain and inflammation.
• OTC NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage inflammation and pain.
• Wear supportive footwear with proper support for the arches and relatively elevated heels could help lower stress on your affected heel.

When to Get Help From Your Podiatrist

If you’re still feeling heel pain after a couple of weeks of conservative treatments, see your podiatrist in our Winter Haven, FL, Lakeland, FL, or, Davenport, FL, location for these treatments:

• Strapping, taping, and padding. Strapping and taping help stabilize the heel and minimize pressure on it, while padding placed inside the shoe reduces the impact on the heel when you walk.
• A night splint will enable you to stretch out your plantar fascia as you slumber.
• Orthotic devices that are customized for you will aid in correcting any underlying structural issues that could be causing you heel pain.
• Physical therapy can help you move your feet better to alleviate your pain.
• A detachable walking case can be utilized for keeping the foot immobile for several weeks, giving it time to heal and rest.
• Corticosteroid injections can sometimes be used for relieving pain and inflammation.

While most people find heel pain relief from these treatments, if you continue to experience pain and other symptoms after several months of these treatments, your podiatrist may consider surgical intervention.

Talk to Us For Help Treating Your Heel Pain

Call 863-299-4551 to schedule an assessment here at Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, LLC in our Lakeland, FL, Davenport, FL, or Winter Haven, FL, office with your podiatrist, Dr. Tatiana Wellens or Dr. Maria Jaramillo.