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When Should You See a Doctor for Heel Pain?

When Should You See a Doctor for Heel Pain?

By Southwest Foot Institute

November 20, 2020

Category: Foot Problems

Tags: Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the most common problems that bring patients into our office and we are pretty sure that there are many other people who have dealt with heel pain but have never had to turn to a podiatrist for treatment. Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, which is both inflammatory conditions caused by overuse. While many people may choose to treat minor heel pain through rest and home care it’s also important to recognize when you may need to see a podiatrist. Dr. Michael Dershowitz of Southwest Foot Institute can help you at his offices in Phoenix and Glendale, AZ.

It’s important that you visit your Phoenix, AZ, heel pain expert right away if you are dealing with any of these issues:

Severe pain and swelling around the heel
Heel pain even when you are at rest
Numbness and tingling in the heel
Trouble walking or bending your foot
Intense heel pain caused by an injury

While it would require immediate attention, you should still schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you are dealing with:

Heel pain that isn’t responding to home care after five days
Heel pain that is getting worse
Heel pain for the first time
Heel pain that goes away and then returns

While plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis tend to be the two most common causes of heel pain they aren’t the only causes. This is why it’s important to see a podiatrist and find out what the underlying cause may be, as different conditions require a different set of treatments. Other causes of heel pain include:

Heel spurs
Bursitis
Stress fracture
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Arthritis
Nerve problems
Cysts

If your heel pain is minor, you may choose to treat the problem at home first. Here are some ways to do that:

Rest as much as possible and avoid exercise or standing for long periods of time
Ice your heel up to 20 minutes at a time, 2-3 times a day
Wear shoes that are supportive and provide ample cushioning (do not wear shoes that are old and worn out)
Do not walk around barefoot, even in the house
Wear custom shoe inserts or place heel cups in the shoes
Take pain relievers like ibuprofen to alleviate pain and inflammation

Dealing with persistent or recurring heel pain? Is foot pain keeping you from living the life you deserve? If so, then it’s time you got answers. Call Dr. Michael Dershowitz of Southwest Foot Institute at (602) 340-8686 to schedule an evaluation with our podiatrist in Glendale or Phoenix, AZ.

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