There’s no need to live with heel pain. Find out how to get your foot problems under control.
Heel pain is no laughing matter, and many people will face a bout of heel pain at some point during their lifetime. Whether you are an athlete or your job requires you to stand on your feet all day, there are many factors that could predispose you to plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory condition that is one of today's most common causes of heel pain. Read on to learn more about this condition, how you can treat it on your own, and when you should turn to our New Albany, IN, podiatrist, Dr. Zahid Ladha, for care.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arches of the feet and connects the toes to the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. You may be more at risk for developing this condition if you:
- Are obese or overweight
- Are a long-distance runner
- Suddenly increase the duration or intensity of a run or physical activity
- Wear worn-out or improper footwear that doesn’t provide ample arch and heel support
- Have overworked, worn out or tight muscles in the legs or feet
- You have high arches or flat feet
What are the signs of plantar fasciitis?
While plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, it isn’t the only cause. However, you may be able to differentiate this condition from other heel pain causes by symptoms alone. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Severe heel pain under the heel (below the heel bone)
- Intense stabbing pain, especially when first standing up or moving around
- Pain that eases up with movement
- Pain that radiates to the arches of the feet
- Stiffness around the arches and heel of the affected foot
When should you see a podiatrist about your heel pain?
If your heel pain is minor, you may choose to take some time to stay off your feet and rest, which is always a good idea. In some cases, this may be all you need to help the inflamed tissue heal; however, it can take several weeks for plantar fasciitis to go away. If your pain is severe, if you are experiencing heel pain for the first time, or if you are having trouble walking around because of pain and other symptoms, then it’s important that you see our New Albany, IN, foot doctor for an evaluation.
Our doctors can identify the cause of your plantar fasciitis to reduce your chances of developing this problem again, as well as provide both self-care measures and other treatment options to handle even the most serious and chronic cases of plantar fasciitis.
Contact Us
Don’t just ignore your heel pain. Our podiatrist and his professional team in New Albany, IN, are here to help alleviate your pain. Call Foot First Podiatry today at (812) 945-9221 to schedule an appointment with us.