Something as simple as walking or standing can become a challenge when you are dealing with heel pain. Left untreated, the pain could get worse over time. Depending on the cause, untreated heel pain could also lead to other foot problems. The board-certified podiatrists at Cascade Foot Center in Salem, OR, provide heel pain relief through various treatments and services.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Several different factors and conditions can cause heel pain. A few common reasons for heel pain include an injury, running or jogging regularly, and participating in high impact sports or activities. Other causes of heel pain include being on the feet for extended periods, wearing footwear without enough support, and an irregular gait or step pattern that puts strain on the heels. Certain structural issues, such as having flat feet or high arches, can also contribute to the development of heel pain.
An extremely common cause of heel pain is a foot condition known as planter fasciitis. Running along the bottom of each foot from the heel to the toes are tissues called plantar fascia, which provide shock absorption for the feet. Excessive wear and tear, repeated stretching, and constant pressure can irritate and cause inflammation of the plantar fascia tissues, which results in heel pain and discomfort.
Treatments for Heel Pain
Several treatment options are available for alleviating heel pain and correcting the underlying cause, particularly if it is due to a foot condition like plantar fasciitis. If the pain is the result of an injury, seeking professional treatment is especially important to ensure the injury heals properly and does not lead to chronic problems.
Our experienced podiatrists will diagnose the cause of your heel pain and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. At our foot center in Salem, OR, heel pain relief treatment methods include:
- Custom orthotics
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Removable walking cast
- Padding and strapping
- Compression wraps
- Night splints
- Surgery
If you are experiencing heel pain, we can help. Schedule an appointment with one of our skilled foot doctors to learn more about treatments for heel pain relief by calling Cascade Foot Center in Salem, OR, at (503) 588-8188.