Heel Pain in Cedar Rapids, IA
Heel pain can be severe, keeping you from staying active and mobile. It’s also a common problem our board-certified podiatrists at Iowa Foot & Ankle Clinic can treat.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can develop if you have plantar fasciitis, a condition caused by overpronation, or rolling your feet when you walk. Heel pain can also develop from excess hard deposits in your heel, causing a heel spur, or from stepping on sharp objects, causing a heel bruise.
Risk Factors for Developing Heel Pain
You are at greater risk of developing heel pain if you have diabetes because you can develop painful diabetic neuropathy. You are also at increased risk if you are overweight, or you stand and walk on hard surfaces for long periods of time.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
You may feel a stabbing or aching pain in your heel, which may radiate to the side of your foot. The pain may increase when you rise from a seated position, or when you first get up in the morning.
How You Can Prevent Heel Pain
You can help prevent heel pain if you:
- Always wear supportive, comfortable footwear appropriate for the sport or activity you are doing
- Do gentle arch and foot stretches daily, especially before the activity
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting extra stress on your feet
- Examine your feet regularly and treat any injuries
- Take over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication
- Visit our podiatrist regularly if you have diabetes, arthritis, or experience significant foot and heel stress
What You Can Do for Heel Pain
For mild heel pain, you can try resting and elevating your heels, taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication, and switching to more supportive shoes.
When You Should Visit Our Podiatrist for Heel Pain
You should visit our podiatrist for heel pain if your heel pain is not relieved by simple remedies, your heel pain is increasing, or it is interfering with your daily activities.
How Our Podiatrist Can Help with Heel Pain
Depending on the cause of your heel pain, a podiatrist may recommend:
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy
- Night splints or walking casts
- Custom-made orthotics or footwear
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT)