If you’re suffering from heel pain, various issues including flat feet can be to blame. Let the team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, Silver Spring, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington, Maple Lawn, and Laurel, MD, diagnose the cause and provide the most effective and personalized treatment for your needs. 

Flat Feet and Heel Pain

 Your feet are incredibly important to your quality of life, but many people live with issues like heel pain that create a great deal of suffering. That suffering impacts their ability to handle integral tasks and enjoy life. 

One of the many causes of pain in the heel is having flat feet or fallen arches. Below, the team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland of Olney, Silver Spring, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington, Maple Lawn, and Laurel, MD, explains this connection and how it can be addressed. 

Basic Foot Mechanics 

 The foot’s structure works by rolling as you take a step. Those steps begin on the heel and your foot rolls across your arches to your toes. To support this movement properly, there should be a curve in the arch area. The thick band of tissue in this area helps support movement and propel the foot forward. 

Unfortunately for some people, the curve is very slight or non-existent, which leads the feet to touch the floor completely. Weight is not evenly distributed, and the plantar fascia – or thick band along the bottom of the feet – withstands too much pressure, which can lead to issues such as the following. 

Plantar Fasciitis 

 When the plantar fascia withstands too much pressure and strain, it becomes inflamed. This causes pain and discomfort throughout the feet, including in the heels as it stretches from the heels to the toes. In some cases, this additional strain on the fascia can lead to heel spurs. 

Tendonitis 

 Another area impacted by having flat feet is the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscles to the heels. As your weight isn’t properly distributed, the Achilles tendon has to work harder to support your movements and help keep your lower legs stable. 

Treating Heel Pain 

 Your podiatrist can help determine the underlying cause of your pain and the most effective way to address it. Typically, this will include a variety of techniques, such as: 

• Custom orthotics for proper arch support 
• Therapeutic exercises for strengthening and stretching 
• Changes in shoes and daily habits 

Find relief from your heel pain with the help of the team at Family Foot & Ankle Associates of Maryland of Olney, Silver Spring, Camp Springs/Clinton, Kensington, Maple Lawn, and Laurel, MD. Call (301) 924-5044 to schedule an appointment today.