Your Local Podiatrist for Heel Pain near Ivanhoe
Heel pain can be an exasperating obstacle that constantly reminds you of its presence with every step. Whether it accompanies you throughout the day or specifically occurs during walking, standing, or even resting, it can make your daily routine much more arduous than necessary.
When exercising or even walking around your home causes you physical pain, this can take a toll on not only your body but also your mind. It limits the activities you can do and may impact the quality of your life. However, heel pain may be addressed with the support of an experienced podiatrist such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist.
Types of Heel Pain
Heel pain may be due to a number of conditions such as:
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It’s caused by the plantar fascia— a band of connective tissue from your heel to the ball of your foot— becoming inflamed, which can happen for many reasons.
Achilles Tendonitis
Repetitive stress and tension on the Achilles tendon, a strong band of tissue at the back of the lower leg, may lead to inflammation and pain known as Achilles tendonitis.
Heel Spurs
Although heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are often intertwined, they are distinct conditions. Heel spurs are characterised by the development of bony projections beneath the heel bone, resulting from prolonged tension or stress on the plantar fascia.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s Disease is commonly seen in active children and teenagers who are still undergoing foot and leg growth. Contributing factors to the condition include overuse, increased body weight, and excessive strain on the muscles.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
Although heel pain may seem simple, it can exhibit various manifestations. The specific symptoms observed depend on the underlying cause, which can include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bursitis, and fat pad atrophy, among others. For example, plantar fasciitis commonly leads to pain on the underside of the heel, especially in the morning, while Achilles tendonitis frequently causes pain at the back of the heel. Furthermore, the type of pain can vary, ranging from sharp and stabbing to aching and tender.
Causes of Heel Pain
Some of the primary causes of heel pain are:
- A sharp, stabbing pain under the heel, especially intense in the morning and after rest, is a typical symptom of plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.
- Heel spurs— Heel spurs may contribute to discomfort in the plantar fascia. While some people experience dull pain, others report a sharp pain.
- The occurrence of pain at the back of the heel, especially during physical activities like running or jumping, is often attributed to conditions such as Achilles tendonitis or Haglund’s deformity.
- When experiencing bursitis in the heel, individuals may encounter pain and tenderness on the back or under the heel. Swelling and warmth in the affected area are also common symptoms.
- The gradual deterioration of the fat pad, the natural cushioning beneath the heel, may lead to heel pain over time.
Ready to say goodbye to heel pain?
Treatment for Heel Pain
In certain cases, heel pain may be alleviated by rest and ice. However, if your condition fails to improve after a few days, it is advisable to seek professional foot care from a podiatrist.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we place great emphasis on developing individualised treatment plans that take your goals into account. Our comprehensive range of treatment options near Ivanhoe includes shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear advice, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotic therapy, and needling. Whether you’re facing skin problems on your feet, struggling with ingrown toenails, or recovering from sports injuries, we will tailor our treatments to address your specific concerns.
Your Heel Pain Questions Answered
When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
If you are encountering persistent or severe heel pain, it is important to seek an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. If you have already attempted home remedies without seeing any relief, please reach out to us without hesitation.
Is walking good for heel pain?
Whether walking is suitable for you depends on the individual circumstances of your condition, its severity, and its impact on your daily life. It is important to be attentive to your body and gauge the level of pain you experience throughout the day. If you are uncertain about the advisability of walking, we encourage you to make an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation and professional guidance.
Do heel spurs require surgery?
In the majority of cases, heel spurs do not require surgical intervention. The discovery of heel spurs on imaging tests, such as X-rays, does not automatically imply the need for surgery. Non-surgical treatment options, such as rest, stretching exercises, orthotics, and other modalities, are commonly utilised as initial approaches. Surgery is usually considered a last resort if conservative treatments prove ineffective.
Should I stretch a sore Achilles?
When dealing with a sore Achilles tendon, it is crucial to approach stretching with care. Gentle stretching exercises may or may not be beneficial for promoting healing, as this can vary depending on individual factors. Excessive stretching, on the other hand, has the potential to cause increased pain or further injury. We strongly recommend seeking professional advice before engaging in any stretching activities if you are experiencing discomfort in your Achilles tendon.
Why does my heel hurt in the morning?
The presence of morning heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. This prevalent condition occurs when the plantar fascia, which is a band of connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes tight and rigid overnight when not in use. Consequently, it may take some time in the morning for the plantar fascia to adapt to being utilised, resulting in heel pain.
Morning heel pain may stem from various factors, including reduced blood flow, Achilles tendonitis, or heel spurs, in addition to plantar fasciitis. To determine the specific cause of your morning heel pain, we recommend seeking a consultation with a podiatrist. They will be able to conduct a thorough evaluation and provide a proper diagnosis.
Can I treat heel pain at my Ivanhoe home?
The treatment of heel pain at home is contingent upon the cause and intensity of the pain. In cases of mild heel pain, resting and making modifications to activities may provide relief. However, if the pain is severe or persists for an extended duration, seeking a personalised assessment from a podiatrist is recommended.
Why Talaria Podiatrist?
Local Team
Our dedicated podiatrists are Thornbury locals, just around the corner from Ivanhoe!
Dedicated Podiatrists
Caring for feet health is our passion, and we bring years of experience to the table.
Inviting Environment
Our clinic embraces an inviting and family-friendly atmosphere, avoiding the conventional white and stuffy environment.
Rediscover Joy in Every Step
Heel pain can be both frustrating and restrictive, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent obstacle. At Talaria Podiatrist near Ivanhoe, our team is dedicated to offering personalised treatment options that cater to your unique needs, enabling you to get back to your regular activities without delay. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or a student, don’t let heel pain hinder your ability to achieve your goals.
Take the Leap Today
At Talaria Podiatrist, we’re dedicated to providing personalised solutions to assist you overcome the obstacle that is heel pain. From plantar fasciitis to Achilles tendonitis and beyond, we have years of experience in customising treatment plans that address the root cause of heel pain and set it free. Whether your dream is to take a leisurely stroll in the park or make it the star of your sports team, get in touch with us today!