Heel pain can happen to anyone, regardless of age, activity level, or lifestyle. While plantar fasciitis is the most common heel 
pain-related complaint, there are many other causes for this condition. If you experience heel pain, your Salem, OR podiatrists can help. Find out more with Dr. James E. Lisle and Dr. Lee J. Poston, at Cascade Foot Center.
What causes heel pain?
The cause of heel pain can vary greatly from case to case. Heel pain can come from many sources, including:
- plantar fasciitis
- tendonitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- bursitis
- stress fracture
- nerve damage
- bone spur
- injury or trauma
- overuse
Diagnosing Heel Pain
Your podiatrist begins your foot and ankle examination by using a physical exam to determine if there are any visible abnormalities. If necessary, your doctor will use x-rays or MRIs to view through the skin into the foot’s bones and connective tissues. Gathering your medical and family history alongside key points about your lifestyle and activity levels can also help your doctor pinpoint the problem. When your doctor finds the correct diagnosis for your heel pain, you can work together to determine the best treatment plan for you and your condition.
Heel Pain Treatment in Salem, OR
Heel pain treatments vary depending on the severity of the problem, the underlying cause, and the patient’s lifestyle. Some cases of heel pain simply require rest, ice, compression, and elevation, often referred to as the RICE healing method. If conservative treatments such as this fail to relieve the symptoms of your heel pain, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, prescription cortisone injections, hot/cold therapy, or prescription orthotics to even out the pressure placed on the foot by the body’s weight. In very rare cases, surgery may become necessary to correct the problem.
For more information on heel pain, please contact Dr. James E. Lisle and Dr. Lee J. Poston at Cascade Foot Center in Salem, OR. Call (503) 588-8188 to schedule a foot examination with your podiatrist today!