Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact daily activities. Whether it's a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull ache, heel pain can stem from various underlying conditions affecting the heel bone, tendons, or surrounding tissues. We offer specific diagnosis and treatment for heel pain to help individuals find lasting relief and get back on their feet. 

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can arise from several factors, including:

1. Plantar Fasciitis: One of the most prevalent causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of tissue (plantar fascia) connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed or strained, leading to pain and stiffness in the heel or arch of the foot.
2. Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can cause pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, particularly during physical activity.
3. Heel Spurs: Bony protrusions that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to calcium deposits can contribute to heel pain, often occurring alongside conditions like plantar fasciitis.
4. Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks or fractures in the heel bone can result from repetitive stress or overuse, leading to localised pain that worsens with activity.
5. Sever's Disease: Common in children and adolescents, Sever's disease is an overuse injury affecting the growth plate in the heel bone, causing heel pain during physical activity or prolonged standing.

Treatment Options

Personalised treatment plans are offered to address specific heel pain symptoms and underlying causes. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options may include: 

• Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotic inserts can provide support, cushioning, and promote proper alignment to alleviate heel pain and prevent recurrence.
• Stretch and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles and tendons surrounding the heel, promoting healing and improving flexibility.
• Dry Needling: This minimally invasive technique involves the insertion of thin needles into trigger points in the leg and/or foot muscles, reducing pain and promoting healing.
• Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area, reducing pain and inflammation. 
• Red Light Therapy: This treatment uses low-level light wavelengths to reduce pain and inflammation while promoting healing in the tissues.
• Footwear Review/Modification: Ensuring proper footwear fit and support is essential for managing heel pain. Furthermore, common activities & terrain exposure may need to be explored. 
• Referral to Specialists: In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, or additional medical intervention is necessary, we can provide referrals to other healthcare specialists for further evaluation and treatment.

Seeking Professional Help

If you're experiencing persistent heel pain that interferes with your daily activities, don't delay seeking professional help. Professional help is available to diagnose the underlying cause of your heel pain and provide effective treatment options to alleviate discomfort and restore foot function. Book a Biomechanical Appointment and take the first step towards relieving your heel pain.