Heel Pain Treatment

The most common cause of heel pain that we see in our OPD is due to Plantar fasciitis. Most of us do suffer from heel pain in our lifetime. Patients usually have heel pain with the following features -

• Pain in the heel on getting up and putting feet on the ground on 1st awakening in the morning. The patient feels severe pain in the heel which settles down after 15 minutes of routine activities.
• Calcaneal or bone spurs don't cause heel pain. They may be present but don't cause it.
• Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative condition where foot support (plantar fascia) develops wear and tear due to improper shoes or repeated activities.
• Mostly present in one foot but can develop in another as patients tend to avoid putting pressure on painful feet.

Heel pain is more common in - Some people or conditions have more chances of developing heel pain. These are -

• Overweight or Obesity as there is constant stress on the heel.
• Recently changed or poorly fitted shoes.
• Patients who have to stand for long periods, especially with leather shoes.
• Some people suddenly start running or increase their duration or distance. These can develop heel pain.

Diagnosis- Usually patient doesn't give any history of any trauma or injury. A doctor usually examines a patient's heel and makes a diagnosis. A simple ultrasound scan can confirm plantar fasciitis. Sometimes we advise patients for foot X-rays if we suspect and stress fracture of the calcaneum.

Treatment- With proper guidance, postural changes, and medicines

Dr. Vikas Tyagi

Consultant Interventional Pain Specialist

★★★★★

* The information provided is for educational purposes and reflects clinical experience at Noida Pain Management Clinic.