Dependable Heel Pain Treatment in London

There are many causes of heel pain, including:

 

• Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament that runs from the heel bone to the foot tip. This type of heel pain happens when an individual’s foot arches too high or low, causing stiffness and pain.

 

• Achilles tendinitis: This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It occurs when the fibrous tissue becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. Runners, sportspeople, and basketball players are more prone to Achilles tendinitis.

 

• Sprains and strains: Heel pain can result from excessive physical activity, causing sprain and strain injuries. These injuries are common and can vary from minor to severe, depending on the circumstance.

 

• Bursitis: Bursae are fluid-filled sacs in joints that surround the areas where the skin, tendons and muscle tissues meet bones. If the back of the heel is inflamed in the bursa, it can cause immense pain. This can be caused by landing hard on the heels or wearing incorrect footwear.

 

• Fracture: If there is a broken bone near the heel, it can be a medical emergency. Immediately call a professional if you suffer a heel fracture.

 

• Haglund's deformity: When a bone enlarges behind the heel, it can cause severe heel pain or ‘pump bump.’ Such a deformity occurs when footwear rubs against the back portion of the heel. 

 

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome: This syndrome happens when the tissue compresses the large nerve in the back part of the foot, causing ankle or foot pain.

 

If you develop heel pain, here are the effective home treatment options available: 

 

• Perform icing on the inflamed area twice daily.

• Take over-the-counter medications to relieve pain.

• Wear doctor-recommended and orthopedic shoes.

• Use a night splint, a unique device that stretches the foot while you rest/sleep.

• Use shoe inserts/heel lifts to decrease pain.

 

If your pain does not ease using these simple home care strategies, visit us at Westmount Foot and Orthotic Clinic for professional heel pain treatment in London. Our professionals will:

 

• Conduct a physical exam: We will assess your heel pain symptoms. Our team will take X-rays to evaluate the cause of your pain and suggest appropriate treatment.

 

• Physical therapy: Massage, physical therapy and ultrasound therapy can break up adhesions or scar tissue. These treatments lower inflammation and alleviate heel pain.

 

• Orthotic devices: Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics) can relieve heel pressure. We can recommend supportive shoes for everyday wear and exercise.

 

• Injections: Steroid injections can reduce pain and swelling. Your provider rarely recommends steroid injections for a tendon problem, but they may help with plantar fasciitis and bursitis.

 

• Immobilization: If the pain is chronic and not responding to treatment, you’ll need casting or a walking boot.

 

• Surgery: If heel pain persists, surgery may be necessary. During surgery, a surgeon usually detaches the plantar fascia from the heel bone.