Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints. And one of the most frustrating, because it can come from several different sources. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the key to lasting relief. The podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle pinpoint exactly what’s driving your heel pain and build a treatment plan around it.
Common causes of heel pain
Heel pain has many possible sources, and the right treatment depends on the cause. The most frequent culprits are plantar fasciitis (bottom-of-heel pain, worst in the morning), heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis (back-of-heel pain), bursitis, stress fractures, and pinched nerves. In active children, Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain during growth spurts.
How we diagnose heel pain
Your visit begins with a thorough exam and a discussion of your symptoms, activity, and footwear. We use in-office imaging when needed to rule out fractures, spurs, or tendon damage so that treatment targets the true source rather than just the symptom.
Treatment options
Treatment is tailored to the diagnosis and may include custom orthotics, stretching and physical therapy, footwear changes, anti-inflammatory care, and injections. For persistent pain, MLS Robotic Laser Therapy can reduce inflammation and accelerate healing without surgery. Surgical options exist for the small number of cases that don’t respond to conservative care.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a doctor for heel pain?
If heel pain lasts more than a week or two, interferes with walking, or comes with swelling, numbness, or signs of infection, it’s time to be evaluated. Early treatment is faster and more effective.
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
Morning heel pain that eases as you move is the classic sign of plantar fasciitis- the tissue tightens overnight and is strained again with your first steps.
Can heel pain be treated without surgery?
Yes. The large majority of heel pain resolves with conservative care such as orthotics, stretching, footwear changes, and in-office therapies. Surgery is rarely necessary.
Don’t let foot or ankle pain keep you from the things you love. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle has board-certified podiatrists in Murray, Draper, and Tooele serving patients across the Salt Lake City area. Call 801-261-1391 or request an appointment online. We get you in as quickly as we can.
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