Heel pain can be excruciating, affecting your daily life and activities. Whether you're an athlete, a busy parent, or someone who spends long hours on their feet, heel pain can be a formidable adversary. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and effective strategies for managing heel pain, so you can regain control of your life and put an end to the agony.

Causes

Heel pain can be caused by various factors, with some of the most common culprits being:

Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or strained.

Achilles Tendinitis: This condition affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Repetitive strain or overuse can lead to inflammation and pain.

Heel Spurs: These bony growths can develop on the underside of the heel bone, often causing discomfort when walking or standing.

Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa sac near the heel can result in heel pain.

Symptoms of Heel Pain

Symptoms:

• A sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially upon waking up in the morning.

• Pain that worsens with activity or after prolonged periods of standing.

• Discomfort that may radiate from the heel to the arch or even up the leg.

• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area.

Treatment Options

At Foot Wellbeing we offer a various range of treatment options that combine traditional and modern methods to achieve the optimal outcome in the shortest time:

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle calf and foot stretches can alleviate tension in the plantar fascia. Exercises that strengthen the foot muscles can also help support the arch.

• Taping: Athletic taping techniques can provide temporary relief by reducing strain on the plantar fascia.

• Dry Needling: A technique involving the insertion of thin needles into trigger points in the foot to release tension and promote healing.

• Electrotherapy: Therapeutic ultrasound, laser therapy, interferential help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

• Shockwave Therapy: High-energy shockwaves are directed at the affected area to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

• Supportive Footwear: Invest in shoes with proper arch support and cushioning to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

• Custom Orthotics: Orthotics are designed to support your specific foot structure and mechanics can provide long-term relief.

If you require additional information or are unsure about the most suitable treatment for your needs, please contact us on 03 9931 1385 or info@footwellbeing.com.au or visit us at 271 Barkly Street Footscray VIC 3011 to chat to our lovely staff.