Our Services / Heel Pain

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is any discomfort or stiffness that affects the bottom of your foot, just below the ankle. Almost everyone experiences heel pain at one point or another. Usually, it responds to at-home measures of care like ice and rest, but if your symptoms last for more than a few days or they get worse, don’t wait to make an appointment at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C.

What causes heel pain?

Heel pain occurs for various reasons, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Sprains and strains
• Fractures
• Achilles tendonitis
• Reactive arthritis
• Osteochondroses (a group of growth disorders)

You might also experience heel pain if you have ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine.

When should I see a podiatrist about heel pain?

Make an appointment with Dr. Berlin at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., if your heel pain is:

• Severe
• Occurs suddenly
• Associated with redness
• Associated with swelling

You should also book an appointment if your heel pain interferes with your ability to stand, walk, or exercise.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

To diagnose heel pain, Dr. Berlin reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started and if any activities like work or exercise make them worse. Next, Dr. Berlin examines your heels, gently pressing on them to pinpoint areas of swelling or sensitivity. He also tests the flexibility of your foot as well as its range of motion.

If Dr. Berlin isn’t able to make a diagnosis through visual observation, he might order diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. These procedures capture detailed photos of your hard and soft tissues and can rule out problems like fractures, strains, or ruptured tendons.

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment of heel pain depends on various factors, including your age, medical history, and the cause of your discomfort. Usually, Dr. Berlin recommends conservative treatments like:

• Resting
• Applying ice to your heel several times a day
• Wearing more comfortable shoes
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication
• Wearing a night splint
• Wearing custom orthotics

If your heel pain persists or it gets worse, surgical intervention might be necessary. At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin offers percutaneous plantar fascia release, a minimally invasive procedure that provides lasting results.

To receive treatment for heel pain, make an appointment at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C.by calling the nearest office or clicking the online booking feature today.