How your foot and ankle doctor in Durham, NC, can help you get relief from heel pain.
Heel pain can be excruciating, making it difficult to stand or walk. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for heel pain, and they are available from your foot and ankle doctor.
Dr. Millicent Brown at InStride Foot and Ankle Center of Durham in Durham, NC, provides a wide range of foot and ankle services, including treatment of heel pain.
Heel pain can be caused by a variety of issues, including:
- Excess calcium deposits on your heel, which can cause a heel spur
- Stepping on hard or sharp objects, which can cause a heel bruise
- Inflammation of the tissue on your heel, known as plantar fasciitis
Inflammation of the tissue on your heel, known as the plantar fascia, can be caused by a few things, including:
- Overpronating, or rolling your feet when you walk
- Walking or standing on hard surfaces for long periods
- Doing high-impact activities or sports like running
- Being flat-footed or carrying excess weight
You may be able to manage mild heel pain using a few simple home remedies like these:
- Applying ice to your heel several times each day
- Stretching your arches and heel several times each day
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
- Placing heel inserts or cushions inside your shoes
Your foot and ankle doctor can help you manage moderate to severe heel pain with professional treatments like these:
- Custom-fit orthotics to help cushion your feet and heels
- Physical therapy to help you stay flexible
- Corticosteroid injections to help reduce inflammation and pain
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication
- Extracorporeal shock wave treatment (ESWT)
Don’t let heel pain keep you from staying active and enjoying your life. Your foot and ankle doctor can help you get relief from heel pain, To find out more about the causes and treatment of heel pain, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Millicent Brown of InStride Foot and Ankle Center of Durham in Durham, NC. Call now.