Heel pain is a common foot condition characterized by a sharp or dull ache in the bottom or back of the heel. It can be incredibly frustrating, causing discomfort when standing, walking, or running.
When visiting our doctors at Thurber & Thurber Podiatric Medicine and Foot Surgery, our podiatrists can help alleviate heel pain in Horseheads, Waverly, and Elmira, NY, by identifying the underlying cause, such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, and developing a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include stretching exercises, orthotics, medications, or physical therapy.
Common Causes Of Heel Pain
Heel pain results from several factors, including overuse injuries, biomechanical problems, and degenerative conditions. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This pain can result from repetitive stress, improper footwear, or tight calf muscles.
Another possible cause is Achilles tendonitis when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. Other causes of heel pain include stress fractures, bursitis, and nerve impingements. In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes can contribute to heel pain. It's beneficial to consult with our podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your heel pain.
Consult Our Podiatrist
Our podiatrist evaluates your medical history and current symptoms during a consultation for heel pain in Horseheads, Waverly, or Elmira, NY. They may also perform a physical examination of the foot that evaluates your gait and foot/ankle structure. Additional diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be ordered to help identify the underlying cause of the heel pain. Based on their findings, the podiatrist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include conservative measures such as physical therapy or orthotics or more advanced interventions such as corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you have questions about heel pain and want to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified podiatrists at Thurber & Thurber Podiatric Medicine and Foot Surgery in Horseheads, Waverly, or Elmira, NY, we have three convenient locations for our patients. Please call (607) 734-4582 for Elmira, (607) 739-8318 for Horseheads, and (607) 565-8128 for our Waverly office.