Heel Pain in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Leesburg, Reston & Warrenton, VA
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is most often caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis, in which the band of tissue known as the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. The plantar fascia runs the length of the feet from the heel along the soles of the feet to the toes, providing support for the arches. If you experience stabbing pain under the heel first thing in the morning and pain that radiates to the arches of the feet, then you are most likely dealing with plantar fasciitis.
Risk Factors for Heel Pain
If you spend a lot of time on your feet, you may be at an increased risk of developing heel pain. Runners, athletes and those who are overweight are also prone to heel pain. The good news is that it is easily treatable with conservative home care such as rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication and stretching.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
You may feel a stabbing or aching pain in your heel, which may radiate to the side of your foot. The pain may increase when you rise from a seated position, or when you first get up in the morning.
How You Can Prevent Heel Pain
You can help prevent heel pain if you:
- Always wear supportive, comfortable footwear appropriate for the sport or activity you are doing
- Do gentle arch and foot stretches daily, especially before the activity
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting extra stress on your feet
- Examine your feet regularly and treat any injuries
- Take over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication
- Contact our podiatrist regularly if you have diabetes, arthritis, or experience significant foot and heel stress
When to See a Podiatrist for Heel Pain
The key to treating your heel pain is to start treating the problem right away when pain first sets in. It’s also important to recognize when heel pain may require professional care. If home care isn’t providing you with the pain relief you need, or if the heel pain lasts more than a week, it’s time to turn to us. Dr. Cardinal is here to help you get your heel pain under control, no matter the cause.
How We Can Help Treat Heel Pain
From steroid injections and custom orthotics to surgery, Dr. Cardinal can bring all the latest and most advanced treatment options to treat even the most severe and stubborn cases of heel pain directly to you.
Depending on the cause of your heel pain, a podiatrist may recommend:
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy
- Night splints or walking casts
- Custom-made orthotics or footwear
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT)