Heel Pain Treatment Northcote
Helping you to step out of heel pain and into comfort.
Your Local Podiatrist for Heel Pain near Northcote
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 participating in exercise or even carrying out daily activities within your own home becomes a source of physical pain, it may have a negative impact on both your body and mind. It restricts your ability to enjoy a wide range of activities and may even diminish your overall quality of life. Fortunately, heel pain may be successfully addressed with the support of a skilled 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 leading cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a connective tissue band stretching from the heel to the ball of the foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be triggered by a variety of factors.
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon, a resilient band of tissue situated at the back of the lower leg, can become inflamed and cause pain due to repetitive stress and tension, a condition known as Achilles tendonitis.
Heel Spurs
While plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are frequently associated, they are separate conditions. Heel spurs develop as bony growths beneath the heel bone in response to persistent 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
Heel pain may sound straightforward, but it can show up in many ways. The specific symptoms depend on the underlying cause, which can range from plantar fasciitis and heel spurs to bursitis and fat pad atrophy. For example, plantar fasciitis tends to cause pain on the bottom of the heel, typically first thing in the morning, while Achilles tendonitis often causes pain at the back of the heel. The type of pain varies as well— it may feel like a sharp, stabbing pain or soreness and tenderness.
Causes of Heel Pain
The most prevalent 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.
- The presence of heel spurs can contribute to discomfort in the plantar fascia, resulting in heel pain. The type of pain experienced can vary, with some individuals reporting a dull, persistent ache while others describe a sharp, sudden 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.
- Pain and tenderness on the back or under the heel, accompanied by swelling and warmth, can be indicative of bursitis in the heel.
- Pain in the heel can arise from the progressive thinning and degradation of the fat pad, the protective cushioning located beneath the heel.
Ready to say goodbye to that nagging heel pain?
Treatment for Heel Pain
In some situations, heel pain may be managed by resting and applying ice. However, if your symptoms persist despite these measures after a few days, it is advisable to consult a podiatrist for professional foot care.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we work with you to create personalised treatment plans with your goals in mind. Treatment options near Northcote may include shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear advice, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotic therapy, and needling. Whether you’re experiencing skin problems on your feet, ingrown toenails, or dealing with sports injuries, we’ll tailor our treatment to you.
Your Heel Pain Questions Answered
When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
If you are facing persistent or severe heel pain, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at your earliest convenience. If you have already attempted home remedies without experiencing any improvement, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
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 most instances, heel spurs can be managed without resorting to surgery. The presence of heel spurs on imaging tests, like X-rays, does not automatically indicate a requirement for surgical treatment. Initial treatment typically involves conservative measures such as rest, stretching exercises, orthotics, and other modalities. Surgical intervention is generally reserved for cases where conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief.
Should I stretch a sore Achilles?
As a general rule of thumb, stretching a sore Achilles should be approached with caution. Gentle stretching may or may not support promoting healing, depending on various factors, while excessive stretching may cause additional pain or damage. As such, we recommend that you seek professional advice if you have a sore Achilles before attempting any stretches.
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.
In addition to plantar fasciitis, morning heel pain can also be attributed to reduced blood flow, Achilles tendonitis, or heel spurs. To identify the underlying cause of your morning heel pain, it is advisable to consult with a podiatrist. They will be able to assess your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Can I treat heel pain at my Northcote 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
As proud Thornbury residents, we are delighted to have our podiatrists serving the local community including Northcote residents.
Dedicated Podiatrists
Our team is driven by a genuine passion for foot health, and we bring a wealth of experience to our practice.
Inviting Environment
At our clinic, we veer away from the traditional white and stuffy setting, choosing instead to create an inviting and family-friendly environment.
Rediscover Joy in Every Step
Heel pain can cause frustration and limitations, but doesn’t have to last forever. With personalised treatment by our team at Talaria Podiatrist near Northcote, our range of treatment options has been built with you in mind so you can get back out there as soon as possible. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy mum, or a student, there’s no need to keep heel pain from letting you 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!