It’s common to experience occasional heel pain, especially if you’re an athlete or spend a large portion of the day on your feet. However, there are cases when heel pain can be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition. To help you spot the signs, the foot care professionals at Orthopaedic Associates of Rochester are here to share some important information. Located in Rochester, NY, the premier orthopedic practice provides top-quality treatment to address a variety of musculoskeletal-related issues.

3 Chronic Causes of Heel Pain

1. Plantar Fasciitis

The tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes is known as the plantar fascia. When it becomes strained, you may experience symptoms such as pain in your foot and heel when getting up in the morning or standing on your feet for an excessive period. The condition will worsen until you seek treatment, which typically involves an exercise plan and orthopedic heel pads for the shoes.

2. Heel Spur

Plantar Fasciitis can also develop into a condition known as a heel spur, which is a bone protrusion that forms where the fascia tissue band meets the heel bone. To diagnose and treat this issue, a doctor may take an X-ray and then create a personalized exercise therapy plan.

3. Arthritis

Heel pain can also be a symptom of arthritis, a progressive auto-immune disease that causes pain in the joints and the tissue surrounding the joints. While arthritis can affect all areas of the body, it’s common in the heels due to the excessive strain on the feet.

If you’re suffering from persistent heel pain and are looking to get a professional diagnosis, turn to the team at Orthopaedic Associates of Rochester in Rochester, NY. They also treat a variety of other issues, from sports injuries to joint conditions. Contact them today at (585) 723-3000 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their services.