How your podiatrists in Horseheads, Waverly, and Elmira, NY, can help you find relief from heel pain
Foot problems can make it difficult to stay active, and heel pain is at the top of the list for discomfort. You don’t have to be in an accident or suffer an injury to experience heel pain. Fortunately, your podiatrist can help you and your feet get relief from heel pain.
The podiatrists at Thurber & Thurber Podiatric Medicine & Foot Surgery, provide a wide variety of foot and ankle services, including treatment of heel pain. They have three convenient office locations in Elmira, NY, Horseheads, and Waverly, NY, to help you and your feet.
Heel pain can be caused by:
- Stepping on hard, sharp objects, which can lead to a heel bruise
- Prolonged periods of standing on your feet can strain ligaments which attach at the heel. When the strain becomes chronic, heel pain forms.
Another very common cause of heel pain is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue which runs across your heel. When this tissue band becomes inflamed, it’s known as plantar fasciitis.
You can develop plantar fasciitis if you:
- Overpronate, or roll your feet when you walk
- Walk or stand on hard surfaces for long periods of time
- Have flat feet or are overweight
- Are a runner, jogger, or engage in activities with high foot stress
- Spend time on ladders or inclines
For mild, temporary heel pain, you can try a few simple home remedies to get relief. Remember to:
- Take over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication
- Place ice packs on and around your heel for 15 minutes
- Insert cushions or heel pads in your shoes to add support to your feet
- Elevate your feet and rest to take pressure off your feet
If home remedies don’t work for you, or if your heel pain is getting worse, it’s time to see your podiatrist for some professional care. Common in-office treatments include:
- Custom-made orthotics, wedges, or footwear
- Our offices likely have the device that will work for you - you can try it on, see how it works and save an additional tip
- Foot stretches and physical therapy
- Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication
- Shock wave treatment (EPAT) - We are the only area EPAT providers
To find out more about the causes and treatment of heel pain, call the podiatrists at Thurber & Thurber Podiatric Medicine & Foot Surgery. You can reach them by calling their office in Elmira, NY, at (607) 734-4582, or in Horseheads, NY, at (607) 739-8318, or at the Waverly, NY, office by calling (607) 565-8128. Call today!