Our feet can withstand a tremendous amount of stress and pressure throughout the day. Putting your feet through too much though can cause an array of pain.
Heel pain can be especially troublesome as it oftentimes makes walking difficult. These are some common syndromes involving heel pain.
A stone bruise can be caused by small trauma to the foot. One can step too hard on a stone (hence the name), or any object and cause a bruise on the fat pad of the foot. This can easily be treated by simply resting your foot.
Plantar fasciitis can be brought on by too much running or jumping which will lead to inflammation of the connecting tissue between the heel bone and the base of your toes. Pain symptoms usually flare up when your first steps in the morning. A doctor might recommend some anti-inflammatories and special stretches to help reduce pain.
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that can develop on the base of the heel after long-term plantar fasciitis. Treatment for heel spurs is the same as for plantar fasciitis: medication and stretches.
Pain behind the heel could indicate an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This is where the tendon at the back of our calf meets the heel bone. This is common in people wear shoes that rub against the back of the heel. It can cause the area to be tender and red which are signs of inflammation. Prolonging the aggravating factors can cause stiffening and perhaps even cause a bone spur if the area appears to have hardened. Using a heel insert can help take the pressure off the site. Stretching the Achilles tendon with your foot flat on the ground and your body leaning toward the wall is also a great way to help with pain. This must be done using the insert as well. Anti-Inflammatory medication, rest and ice can help with reduces inflammation and swelling.
If your heel pain persists beyond just two days, you should see your podiatrist. Dina Tsentserensky, DPM and Oliver Zong, DPM are experienced podiatrists who treat all foot related conditions.They, along with the rest of the orthopedists and physiatrists and NY Bone and Joint Specialists, provide the highest standard of care in NYC. Years of experience and excellence have made our practice the top rated in New York City and New Jersey. Our practice has one goal: a better quality of life for our patients.
