Heel Pain FAQs

Heel pain typically manifests itself on the underside or back of one’s heel. Although its cause is rarely indicative of a serious condition, it can interfere with routine activities such as exercising or merely walking. Among the most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is an irritation of the band of tissues that connects your heel bone to the base of your toes, resulting in stabbing or throbbing pain. Achilles tendonitis is usually the result of overuse. It causes burning pain in the area of the tendon slightly above the heel bone as well as mild swelling. Other causes of heel pain include stress fractures, heel pad bruises, and infections.

Your body will tell you when your heel pain reaches a point where you should seek medical assistance. You should call Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists to schedule an office visit for heel pain treatment if your pain persists even when you are not walking or standing or if it lasts for more than a couple of weeks despite self-care such as rest and ice. However, heel pain treatment may be more urgent if you have severe pain or swelling, an inability to bend your foot downward, or an accompanying fever, tingling, or numbness. Under any of these circumstances, you should see a doctor immediately.

Among our most popular heel pain treatments at Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists is extracorporeal shockwave treatment (ESWT). This non-invasive, non-surgical approach involves using a special device to send shockwaves to a targeted area of your heel. These shockwaves trigger your body’s natural repair mechanisms to stimulate healing. Additionally, they can overstimulate pain transmission nerves, which reduces their sensitivity. This in-office treatment has been proven effective for patients with plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Other treatment options include physical therapy, footwear modification, and surgery.

The heel pain treatment you will receive at Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists works rapidly and effectively. Many patients notice relief after the first visit. Additionally, there is a much shorter recovery time for our non-invasive techniques than you would need following foot or ankle surgery, so you can return to your routine quickly.

There are several steps you can take to prevent heel pain from occurring or worsening. The team at Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists can advise you about ways to minimize your risk of heel pain at our friendly clinic in Sugar Land, TX. To help prevent heel pain, you should maintain healthy body weight, wear proper footwear, rest your feet when possible, and warm up before participating in any exercises or sporting activities.