When to See a Doctor for Persistent Heel Pain

Heel pain can make regular activities, such as walking or standing, difficult or even unbearable. Left untreated, heel pain could become more severe over time, leading to additional problems. Dr. Ryan Slepoy, the experienced podiatrist at Associates in Podiatry in Bedford, NH, treats heel pain due to various causes, such as an acute injury or chronic condition.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

One of the primary causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is associated with pain at the bottom of the heel. Many individuals with the condition also experience pain along the foot's arch. Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia tissue running along the bottom of the foot becomes damaged or inflamed, often due to constant pressure or wear and tear.

Other causes of heel pain include:

• Sports injuries
• Achilles tendonitis
• High-impact activities
• Wearing footwear without enough support
• Flat feet or other issues with foot structure
• Walking with an irregular gait
• Stress fractures
• Heel spurs
• Arthritis

When to See a Doctor

Minor heel pain can sometimes be treated at home with rest, ice, and over-the-counter products. However, you should see a doctor if the pain persists or worsens. See a podiatrist about persistent heel pain if any of the following situations apply:

• The pain does not improve with at-home treatment after a few weeks
• Other symptoms develop, such as redness, swelling, or warmth around the heel
• The pain makes it difficult to participate in normal activities
• You have difficulty walking or putting weight on the heel
• The pain persists even when off your feet
• The pain has gotten worse
• You have diabetes

Treatments for Heel Pain

There are several methods for treating heel pain. The right one depends on the heel pain's type, cause, and severity. The knowledgeable podiatrists at our office in Bedford, NH, treat heel pain due to various causes or conditions and will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatments for heel pain include:

• Custom orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Extracorporeal shock wave treatment (ESWT)
• Removable walking cast
• Padding and strapping
• Compression wraps
• Night splints
• Surgery

If you have persistent or severe heel pain, we can help. Call Associates in Podiatry in Bedford, NH, at (603) 471-9933 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Slepoy for heel pain treatment.