30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- Heel pain is a common foot condition that normally heals itself after a few weeks or months of rest and minimal activity.
- Although most cases of heel pain are generally harmless, there are instances where heel pain can become severe and persistent (chronic).
- The pain management physicians at Southwest Spine and Pain Center discuss treatment options for those suffering from chronic heel pain.
The heel bone, also called the calcaneus, is the largest bone in the human foot. Because this bone is designed to support a person’s body weight, it is often subjected to significant stress and damage. Most patients with heel pain develop it from arthritis, infection, or injury. On the other hand, many patients experience heel pain due to the development of an autoimmune disease, neurological problem, or systemic condition.
Other common causes of heel pain may include:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Chronic inflammation
- Stress fracture
- Severs disease
- Achilles tendonitis
A pain management physician at Southwest Spine and Pain Center will administer a thorough patient evaluation to determine the exact cause of your heel pain. Your heel pain may have been caused by one of the above-mentioned conditions, or other ailments such as bone bruises, cysts, or gout.
Regardless, most patients suffering from heel pain suffer from the following symptoms:
- Heel pain that comes on gradually
- Pain that is triggered by wearing flat shoes
- Redness and swelling of the muscles surrounding the heel
- Pain under the foot and toward the front of the heel
Once your physician has determined a diagnosis, he will likely recommend one or more of the following treatment options:
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Splints or orthotics
- Surgery
Call Southwest Spine and Pain Center today to have our heel pain thoroughly evaluated by a pain management physician!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With multiple locations across the state of Utah, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.