HEEL PAIN TREATMENT
IN WASHINGTON D.C. - FOXHALL PODIATRY ASSOCIATES
Plantar Facsiitis
What causes arch and heel pain?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory response that is caused by degenerative irritation at the insertion of the plantar fascia ligament—which is a thick band of tissue that attaches your heel bone to your toes. These ligaments act as shock absorbers that support the arch of your foot. However, too much pressure can cause the ligaments to become inflamed—when this occurs, the inflammation often causes heel pain and stiffness. This pain is most often felt when you take your first steps after getting out of bed or after extended periods of inactivity.
While most people associate plantar fasciitis with runners, it can be diagnosed in almost anyone regardless of their activity level. Increased pressure on the plantar fascia is thought to be the main cause of plantar fasciitis. Because of this, individuals who are overweight or obese have more risk of developing the condition.
Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis
Our Podiatrists initially treat heel pain (plantar fasciitis) conservatively with:
Anti-inflammatory Medication
Plantar Fascia Exercise
Cortisone Injections
More severe cases of plantar fasciitis might require surgery. The most common surgical procedure is known as a plantar fascia release, where the surgeon releases a portion of the plantar fascia ligament from the heel bone to relieve tension and pain.
if you're suffering with plantar fasciitis pain, book an appointment with Foxhall Podiatry Associates today to get you back on your feet as soon possible.
Heel Spurs
What is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is calcium deposit located underneath the heel that causes small pieces of bone to protrude. Pain associated with heel spurs is often confused with another condition called plantar fasciitis—which refers to inflammation in plantar fascia ligament. A heel spur, on the other hand, is a piece of bone that forms on the heel bone itself.
In most cases, heel spurs do not cause any symptoms. Although there are cases where heel spurs are associated with intermittent or chronic pain. However, the heel spur itself is not necessarily the root of the pain. Instead, the pain is attributed to the inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia ligament. Pain is usually worst in the morning when you first wake up, but it recedes as ligaments loosen.
Treatment of Heel Spur
Heel spurs cannot be diagnosed through a physical exam; they can only be seen using an x-ray. In fact, many heel spurs are diagnosed based off images your doctor takes while looking for something else. When heel pain persists for more than a month, you should contact Foxhall Podiatry Associates. Our Foot Doctors may recommend the following non-invasive treatment methods:
Various stretching exercises
Shoe replacement
Custom orthotics
Padding
Physical therapy
Most cases of heel pain can be treated with conservative methods, but anti-inflammatory medications or injections may also be recommended. These medications not only reduce pain, but inflammation too. Foxhall Podiatry Associates is here to help you, make an appointment today.