Although heel pain is uncomfortable, it’s common for many teens and older adults. It’s rarely indicative of any severe or dangerous conditions, but it can make everyday activities like walking in high heels, going for a run, or taking a stroll difficult. If you’ve been experiencing heel pain, the following guide will help you better understand how to move forward.

Causes of Heel Pain

The heel bone, otherwise known as the calcaneus, is the biggest bone in your foot. As a result, it supports the majority of your weight when you stand, absorbing the impact and shock of all your movements. That’s why people typically experience stress and mechanical injuries rather than sprains or fractures. Although you should see a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis, often injuries like this are the result of conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or heel bumps.

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you're struggling with persistent heel pain, visiting a podiatrist is crucial. During your appointment, they’ll perform an examination to issue diagnosis and outline an effective treatment plan. Depending on the cause of your condition, they may opt for more conservative treatments like rest, ice therapy, or stretching.

In more serious cases, they might suggest using a pain reliever or corticosteroids to minimize symptoms. They may also refer you to a physical therapist to rehabilitate the injury. If none of the above treatments work, your podiatrist might suggest seeing an orthopedic surgeon to reconstruct the heel bone.

If you struggle with heel pain and are seeking effective diagnosis and treatment, turn to the professionals at Eastern CT Foot Specialists in Norwich and North Windham, CT. With a broad range of services and a compassionate staff, they have all the resources needed to ensure optimum health and comfort. To schedule an appointment, call their Norwich office at (860) 887-3538 or their North Windham office at (860) 456-9593. Visit their website to learn more about their services.