The most common cause of heel pain reported in the United States is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the band of tissue that runs under each foot, connecting your heels to your toes. Sometimes the tissue can become overstretched which causes pain in the heel. If you think you have plantar fasciitis, you can treat it at home, but if the pain is persistent or worsens you should consult Dr. Philip Caswell at Sparta NJ Family Foot & Ankle Care.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis at Home
Sparta heel pain patients who are suffering from plantar fasciitis find that the following home treatments can help:
- Use an icepack 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off your heel to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication.
- Do gentle, foot flexing stretches and exercises.
- Wear show inserts to elevate your arch and heel.
- Try not to walk on uneven surfaces.
Other Plantar Fasciitis Treatments
If the above suggestions don’t work, your Sparta heel pain experts may recommend the following treatments:
- Wearing a splint in bed to stretch your foot while you sleep
- Working with a physical therapist
- Custom orthotics to relieve the pressure from your heel
If your heel pain is chronic, your podiatrist may give you a shot of cortisone to reduce the inflammation. Shock wave therapy may also be an option to discuss. This involves directing a mild electrical current in the inflamed area. As a last resort, your podiatrist may recommend invasive surgery. This is usually only considered if you have been in pain for several months and other treatments have been unsuccessful.
If you live in Sparta NJ and you would like to talk to Dr. Phillip Caswell, you can reach him on (973) 300-9151 to schedule an appointment. You can discuss all forms of heel or ankle pain including treatment options for plantar fasciitis available at Family Foot & Ankle Care.