Heel pain is one of the most common complaints among patients seeking foot care. It can significantly impact daily activities, making walking, exercising, and even standing uncomfortable. At North Shore Foot & Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heel pain to help you regain your mobility and comfort. A frequent culprit behind heel pain is plantar fasciitis—a condition that affects the connective tissue along the bottom of the foot.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running from your heel to the base of your toes—becomes inflamed or irritated. This condition often results in sharp pain near the heel, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Overuse, poor footwear, and biomechanical issues are common contributors.
Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel pain: Especially severe during the first steps in the morning or after rest.
- Stiffness: Tightness in the arch or heel area.
- Pain after exercise: Pain may worsen after physical activity rather than during it.
- Tenderness: Tenderness along the bottom of the foot.
Causes of Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis
Several factors can increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis or other forms of heel pain, including:
- Overuse: Prolonged standing or excessive running, especially on hard surfaces.
- Foot mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal walking pattern.
- Improper footwear: Shoes without adequate arch support or cushioning.
- Age: The condition is more common in individuals between 40 and 60.
- Weight: Being overweight can place extra stress on the plantar fascia.
Diagnosis at North Shore Foot & Ankle
Our team at North Shore Foot & Ankle uses a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging to identify the source of your heel pain. We may evaluate:
- The location and severity of your pain
- Foot structure and biomechanics
- Activities or footwear contributing to your symptoms
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Treatment for plantar fasciitis aims to reduce pain and inflammation while addressing the underlying causes. Common approaches include:
- Conservative Therapies:
- Rest and ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help decrease inflammation.
- Stretching exercises: Targeting the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia to improve flexibility.
- Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter inserts to provide support and relieve pressure on the heel.
- Night splints: Wearing a splint to stretch the plantar fascia overnight.
- Advanced Treatments:
- Physical therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises to address foot mechanics.
- Shockwave therapy: Non-invasive treatment to promote healing and reduce pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: Targeted relief for severe inflammation.
- Surgical intervention: Rarely required but may be an option for chronic, unresponsive cases.
Preventing Heel Pain
Taking proactive measures can reduce your risk of developing plantar fasciitis:
- Wear supportive shoes with proper cushioning and arch support.
- Incorporate foot stretches into your daily routine.
- Avoid prolonged standing or high-impact activities on hard surfaces.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet.
Q&A About Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis
Q: How long does it take for plantar fasciitis to heal? A: Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Most patients experience relief within a few weeks to months with consistent conservative care.
Q: Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own? A: While some cases may improve over time, untreated plantar fasciitis can become chronic and lead to additional complications. Early treatment is recommended.
Q: Are there exercises I can do to prevent heel pain? A: Yes! Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, such as calf stretches and rolling a ball under your foot, can help.
Q: Is plantar fasciitis more common in athletes? A: Athletes are at higher risk due to repetitive stress on their feet, but anyone can develop plantar fasciitis.
Q: When should I see a doctor for heel pain? A: If heel pain persists for more than a few weeks or worsens despite home care, schedule an appointment with us for a professional evaluation.
Contact North Shore Foot & Ankle
If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t wait to seek relief. Our expert team is ready to help you diagnose the issue and create a personalized treatment plan. Contact us at one of our convenient locations:
- Lynbrook: (516) 599-0302
- Syosset: (516) 496-7676
- Rosedale: (718) 949-4844
- Flushing: (718) 591-3320
- Plainview: (516) 942-0620
Take the first step toward comfort and mobility by scheduling your appointment today!