When Heel Pain Warrants a Visit to a Professional
Apr 18, 2022
Utah - Utah
Heel pain can seemingly strike out of nowhere, and when rest and ice dont relieve your symptoms, its best to have the problem checked out. Untreated heel issues can become chronic.
Heel pain is a common complaint and when it strikes your first instinct is likely to wait and see if it improves. You may turn to some self-care approaches, such as ice, heat, rest, and compression. In some cases, this is all you need for heel pain to resolve. If heel pain sticks around, its time to visit an orthopedic physician for an evaluation.
At Inspire Health Clinics in South Jordan, Utah, foot and ankle surgeon Matthew Graff, DPM, specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the foot and ankle. Problems that affect the feet and ankles are often dismissed until they become too painful to ignore. In this post, we discuss more about heel pain and the signs and signals that you should see a physician.
When heel pain signals an injury Your feet and ankles have a big job to do. They carry your weight so that you can walk, jump, run, and move effortlessly. Foot and ankle injuries are common and a sign that you should see an orthopedic physician to get checked out. Any damage to the foot or ankle requires medical treatment so that your foot can heal properly. Untreated foot and ankle injuries can result in chronic problems down the road.
Here's what to look out for that may point to a heel injury:
Problems walking
Swelling
Bruising
Tingling or numbness
Weakness
Pain
If you have a history of foot and ankle problems it's important to see an orthopedic physician to check for underlying issues.
Common causes of heel pain
Overuse and underlying medical conditions commonly cause heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis
A thick band of tissue called a plantar fascia runs from the back of your heel to your toes. This tissue can become inflamed. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain and typically causes a stabbing pain at the bottom of the foot in the heel area. You're more likely to get plantar fasciitis if you're an athlete or stand on your feet for long periods. Excess pressure on the plantar fascia can cause irritation and inflammation.
Heel spur
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms at the bottom or back of your heel. It varies in size and can cause pain when you walk. Not all heel spurs cause pain, and many people who have them are unaware of it. When a heel spur does cause pain, it can make it difficult for you to walk comfortably.
Bursitis
Bursa are fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints so that they glide smoothly. Bursitis occurs when the bursa near the heel joint becomes irritated or inflamed. This can cause your heel to feel painful and swollen.
Achilles tendonitis
The Achilles tendon connects your lower leg to your heel bone. This tendon is vulnerable to overuse if you play sports that involve running, such as basketball. You're also more likely to develop Achilles tendonitis if you're overweight. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can cause heel pain and limit your range of motion. Left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can result in a tendon rupture. If you're dealing with heel pain, discomfort, limited range of motion, or other heel issues, its best to consult with a foot and ankle specialist for further evaluation. Don't ignore heel pain. A prompt diagnosis paves the way for treatment to relieve your pain. Give us a call to schedule a visit with Dr. Graff. New and existing patients can also request an appointment using our online booking form.
Other Articles You May Like
What to Look for When Visiting Older Adults During the Holidays
For many families, the holidays are the only time they have to spend together, and COVID-19 has made that more challenging. Phone calls and emails are great ways to connect with loved ones from afar, but the distance can make it hard to notice changes in a persons appearance or surroundings that could indicate they need help. During socially-distanced, masked visits or on video chat, families should pay attention to: The Condition of the HomeIs it messier or more cluttered than usual?Is there spoiled food in the refrigerator or cupboards?Are bills not being paid on time?Are household goods being put away in the wrong places?The Persons ConditionDo they have unexplained weight loss?Are they wearing clothes that are dirty or inappropriate for the weather?Are they having trouble with toileting or basic hygiene such as showering or brushing their teeth?Have they fallen recently?Do they appear to be off-balance?Are they having difficulty sleeping?The Persons BehaviorsAre they missing scheduled medical visits or telehealth appointments?Are they forgetting to refill prescriptions or take medications as prescribed?Do they seem confused when you talk to them about topics theyd normally understand?Are they exhibiting any personality changes or mood swings?These sorts of deficits could be a sign that they need extra help. At ComForCare Home Care, we understand the challenges that can arise with aging. Home care can help older adults continue to live independently in their own home and do all the things they love. Contact us today to learn more about how we help people live their best lives possible. Please call us with any questions, 720-575-5576.
What Is An Orthopedic Surgeon and What Do They Do?
An orthopedic surgeon is a doctor who treats musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, and is trained to perform surgery when needed. Orthopedic surgeons are responsible for treating and diagnosing musculoskeletal conditions and injuries. Many people believe that orthopedic surgeons only use surgery as an option to treat orthopedic injuries and ailments. That is not true. Orthopedic surgeons use a variety of treatment options, surgery is only one option that orthopedic surgeons use to treat orthopedic injuries or ailments. Other treatment options that orthopedic surgeons use are injections, physical/ occupational therapy, braces, and splints. The injury or condition is what determines what kind of treatment options will be available.Orthopedic surgeons can see patients and treat a variety of different orthopedic conditions. Some orthopedic surgeons may choose to specialize in one area which could be foot and ankle, spine, or hip and knee. Other orthopedic surgeons may choose to not specialize, and work in general orthopedics. Conditions that orthopedic surgeons treat can include:ArthritisOsteoporosis FracturesSports InjuriesTendon or Ligament Issues Nerve ConditionsDegenerative Bone & Joint ConditionsOrthopedic surgeons provide both surgical and non-surgical treatment options for a variety of different treatment options. They are in charge of getting their patients back to doing what they love to do. If you are looking to make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon, please contact our office at 239 - 325 - 4090. 325 - 4090.
Common Conditions Treated in Our Office
There are many different orthopedic injuries and conditions that can occur. Some orthopedic conditions are more common than other orthopedic conditions. Everyday in our office, we see a variety of different orthopedic injuries and conditions. We have put together a list of the most common conditions and injuries we see in our office.FracturesFractures are seen frequently in our office. Fractures can occur anywhere from the hand and wrist to the spine to the foot and ankle. When a fracture occurs, it is important to see an orthopedist soon after the injury, because fractures begin to heal themselves soon after the initial break. An orthopedist needs to be able to assess the fracture, before it starts to heal, in order to create a plan for the bone to heal correctly. Treatments such as using a brace or possibly even surgery, may be used to treat the fracture. ArthritisArthritis is a condition that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. There are a few different kinds of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis can decrease the range of motion of a joint, which can interfere with normal daily activities. Treatment for arthritis can include physical therapy, medications to reduce inflammation, and possibly surgery. Ankle and Foot InjuriesAnkle and foot injuries are some of the most common orthopedic injuries that occur. Ankle and foot injuries can affect all aspects of life because they keep you off your feet. Injuries that occur in the foot and ankle can keep you from doing the things you love to do. When an injury happens in the foot or ankle, it is important to see an orthopedist as soon as possible so that they can help you get back on your feet and be able to do the things you love to do.Knee PainExperiencing knee pain can be a symptom of an orthopedic condition. Knee pain can make it difficult to walk and do daily activities. An orthopedist will be able to discover the cause of the pain and create a treatment plan. Depending on the source for the pain, the treatment plan can include physical therapy, injections, and possible surgery. Back and Neck painBack and/or neck pain can range from mild to severe. Depending on the intensity of the pain, it can cause reduced mobility and even limit normal activities. Orthopedists can help identify the root of the pain and create a plan of treatment for back and neck painIf you are experiencing any of the conditions, symptoms, or any other musculoskeletal conditions, please contact our office at 239 - 325 - 4090 to schedule an appointment for