How your podiatrist in Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, can help you and your feet feel better
Heel pain can cause a lot of problems, making it difficult to stand, walk, and support your weight. If you are suffering from heel pain, your podiatrist can help.
Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry provides comprehensive footcare services, including treatment of heel pain. He has two convenient office locations in Fort Walton Beach, and Crestview, FL. He proudly serves residents of the Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, areas.
Heel pain can develop from a few different causes, including:
- A heel bruise, which is caused by stepping on hard or sharp objects
- A heel spur, which is caused by excess calcium deposits on your heel
- Plantar fasciitis, which is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running across your heel
For mild heel pain, you can try a few simple remedies at home, including:
- Icing your heel for 15 minutes several times each day
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
- Doing gentle arch stretches every day
- Resting and elevating your heel whenever you can
For moderate to severe heel pain, it’s best to visit your podiatrist. Professional treatments for heel pain include:
- Custom-made orthotics to support your heels and feet
- Physical therapy and stretching to maintain flexibility
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and pain
- Corticosteroid injections around your heel to reduce inflammation and pain
- Night splints to stretch the plantar fascia while you are sleeping
- Wearing a walking cast or boot
There are several modifications you can make to help prevent heel pain. Remember to:
- Always wear comfortable, supportive shoes and avoid going barefoot
- Always wear appropriate footwear for the activity you are doing
- Do low-impact activities like swimming or yoga, instead of high-impact activities like running
To learn more about the causes and treatments for heel pain, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry. You can reach him in Fort Walton Beach, FL, by calling (850) 862-4119, or in Crestview, FL, at (850) 682-6522, so call now.