Your Local Podiatrist for Heel Pain near Preston
Dealing with heel pain can be a frustrating barrier, as it constantly reminds you of its presence with each step you take. Whether it persists continuously or emerges during specific activities like walking, standing, or even resting, it can create unnecessary difficulty in your daily life.
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 tends to occur in active children and teenagers whose feet and legs are still growing. Overuse, increased body weight, and excessive muscle strain are frequent causes.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
Heel pain may sound like a straightforward issue, but it can manifest in diverse ways. The specific symptoms experienced are determined by the underlying cause, which can encompass plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bursitis, and fat pad atrophy, among others. For instance, plantar fasciitis typically results in pain on the bottom of the heel, particularly upon initial steps in the morning, while Achilles tendonitis often leads to pain at the rear of the heel. The nature of the pain can also vary, ranging from sharp and stabbing to a general soreness and tenderness.
Causes of Heel Pain
The most common causes of heel pain are:
- Heel pain that presents as a sharp, stabbing discomfort under the heel, particularly prominent in the morning and after rest, is often associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Heel spurs— Heel spurs may contribute to discomfort in the plantar fascia. While some people experience dull pain, others report a sharp pain.
- Achilles tendonitis— This often leads to pain at the back of the heel that is most noticeable during physical activities such as running or jumping.
- 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.
- Over time, the natural padding under the heel, known as the fat pad, may wear down, causing discomfort and pain.
Are you prepared to say farewell to heel pain and welcome comfort?
Treatment for Heel Pain
For some individuals, heel pain may be relieved through rest and the application of ice. Nevertheless, if your condition does not show signs of improvement after several days, it is recommended to seek 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 Preston 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’re experiencing persistent or severe heel pain, it’s advisable to make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible. If you’ve tried home remedies without noticing any improvement, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Is walking good for heel pain?
The feasibility of walking as an activity varies depending on your specific condition, its severity, and its impact on your well-being. It is essential to listen to your body and be mindful of the level of pain you experience during daily activities. If you are unsure whether walking is appropriate for you, we recommend making an appointment to see us for a comprehensive assessment and personalised advice.
Do heel spurs require surgery?
For the most part, heel spurs typically don’t require surgery. They are often found on imaging tests such as X-rays, but that doesn’t indicate they need to be treated with surgery. Conservative treatments such as rest, stretching exercises, orthotics, and other modalities are generally used first.
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?
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of morning heel pain. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a connective tissue band located on the underside of the foot, tightens and stiffens during periods of rest, such as overnight. Consequently, it may require some time in the morning for the plantar fascia to adjust to being active again, leading to heel pain.
Reduced blood flow, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs are potential causes of morning heel pain, in addition to plantar fasciitis. To pinpoint the underlying cause of your specific morning heel pain, we encourage you to consult with a podiatrist. Their knowledge and evaluation will determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can I treat heel pain at my Preston home?
Depending on its cause and how severe the pain is, you may be able to treat heel pain at home. If your heel pain is mild, resting and modifying any activities you do may be beneficial. However, if your pain is severe or continues for several days or longer, it’s wise to see a podiatrist for a personalised assessment.
Why Talaria Podiatrist?
Local Team
Our dedicated podiatrists are Thornbury locals, just around the corner from Preston!
Dedicated Podiatrists
With a genuine passion for foot health, we have accumulated extensive experience in the field.
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 cause frustration and limitations, but doesn’t have to last forever. With personalised treatment by our team at Talaria Podiatrist near Preston, 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, our unwavering commitment is to provide personalised solutions that aid you overcome the hurdle of heel pain. With our extensive experience, we are proficient in crafting treatment plans that are tailored to address the root causes of heel pain, including conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Our goal is to relieve your pain and enable you to pursue your dreams, whether it’s a peaceful walk in the park or excelling in your athletic endeavours. Reach out to us today to embark on your journey towards a pain-free life!