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Heel Pain

Probably one of the most common conditions we see at Sydney Podiatry Co is pain in or around the heel. This pain may also extend into the arch or into the achilles tendon and can affect people of all ages. Pain in the heel can range from a dull ache, stabbing pain, pain on rising, tightness and or burning in the heel and arch.

 

Conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, and achillies tendonopathy can often cause pain to the point where your ability to complete day-to-day activities is hindered. Although plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain it is important to recognise that there are a multitude of factors which can contribute to why you would get pain in and around your heel.  At Sydney Podiatry Co our podiatrists will analyse, identify, assess and diagnose your major causes of your heel pain and manage it accordingly.

 

So what is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thin fibrous band of connective tissue that overlies all the muscles in the bottom of our feet. The plantar fascia acts like a big rubber band acting like a shock absorber. That being said it is no wonder its prone to overuse and degeneration. While your moving, your plantar fascia is too!

 

It is very common  (in the early stages) for people with plantar fasciitis to experience pain during the first few steps out of bed in the morning in the heel of your foot which can improve as the foot warms up, however left untreated pain will often become more prolonged throughout the day.

 

Why do I have plantar fasciitis?

There is most often more than one reason you may be suffering with plantar fasciitis. This condition is multi-faceted and questions you may ask yourself include:

  • Are on your feet for long periods of time, stand on hard floors or wear high heel shoes
  • Are overweight
  • Have flat feet or an unusually high arch foot type
  • Take up a new form of exercise or suddenly increase the intensity of your exercise.
  • Have leg length differences
  • Have an abnormal gait cycle
  • Have calf muscle shortening/tightness
  • Have weak foot muscles
  • Have other underlying medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus).

How will you treat my heel pain?

At Sydney Podiatry Co we use a three step approach to treatment of heel pain:

  • Identify the structure/s are causing your heel to hurt
  • Determine the mechanism of pain
  • Implement a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

 

Treatment may include padding/strapping, stretching and or strengthening exercises, massage, dry needling, shockwave, orthotic therapy, activity modification, footwear advice, heat application, and foot mobilisation.

 

Our Podiatrists at Sydney Podiatry Co understand how debilitating heel pain can be, and we want to keep you moving! If your heel pain is Make an appointment today with one of our podiatrists to kick-start your way to a pain free day.