Understanding Heel Pain: Causes and Symptoms

At Sellwood Podiatry in Southeast Portland, OR, we understand the importance of dealing with heel pain right away. Heel pain can make it difficult to walk, and lead to challenges getting through your daily activities. Dr. Brandi Myers works with patients throughout Southeast Portland, OR to address issues with heel pain, abnormal gait, and foot pain. It is important to identify what is causing your heel pain, for early treatment to be most effective at managing this condition.

Common Reasons for Heel Pain

 One of the most prominent causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the plantar fascia at the bottom of your feet becomes inflamed. The plantar fascia supports the arches of your feet and can become irritated from overuse. Bone spurs can increase heel pain, but are not often the primary cause of what is going on with your feet. 

Risk Factors for Developing Heel Pain

 If you are on your feet all the time, this can lead to issues with plantar fasciitis. People who stand for extended hours at work, runners, and other athletes can be prone to heel pain if small problems aren't addressed right away. If you are overweight, you are at higher risk of straining your plantar fascia and causing pain in your heels and feet. Heel pain can come on quickly after a long day of walking, or can develop slowly over a period of a few weeks. When you address early signs of heel pain, you have a better chance of stopping plantar fasciitis from getting out of control.

Treatment to Try at Home for Heel Pain

 Rest is the first step in trying to manage heel pain at home. If you determine that plantar fasciitis is the cause of your heel pain, stretching your feet periodically can help ease the strain on your feet. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication can reduce symptoms, while massage can bring nutrient-dense blood to the area to help your tissues heal. If treatment at home doesn't reduce your symptoms, it's time to work with a podiatrist to address the problems going on with your feet.

Call for a Southeast Portland, OR Podiatrist Today

If you are experiencing heel pain, it's time to get the treatment you deserve to live pain-free. Contact Sellwood Podiatry in Southeast Portland, OR at (503) 235-8594, and set up an appointment to meet with Dr. Myers today. With the right treatment in place, you can get back to the activities you love without pain or discomfort.