Top Tips to Avoid Heel Pain
Top Tips to Avoid Heel Pain. Heel pain is one of the most common foot pains us podiatrists treat. Heel pain can either be at the bottom of your heel, or the back. The most common type of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This is both arguably an inflammatory and degenerative condition, therefore early diagnosis and treatment, would result in a better prognosis.
However not all heel pain is related to plantar fasciitis. There are other structures around your heel that can become inflamed and cause discomfort, such as the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendinopathy is commonly seen at the back of the heel. Tightness and sharp pains at the Achilles tendon insertion point, or a few millimetres above the insertion, can be experienced.
With both these conditions, increased pain is noted after long periods of rest; pain may ease after a few minutes of walking but redevelop again with increased activity.
The main cause of heel pain is a combination of abnormal foot function and footwear choice. The heel, or the rearfoot of the foot, has complex biomechanics, where different conditions would exhibit different types of pain. Your podiatrist would need to complete a full biomechanical assessment whilst taking a detailed history to educate you on your condition, and the best treatment options to help resolve this.
Happy feet need to be pain free as well as comfortable, so you can do the things that matter to you the most. Here are our top 7 tips to avoid heel pain:
Medipod Clinics. Top Tips to avoid Heel Pain
- If you’re starting to get more active, ease yourself in.
Don’t do too much, too soon!
- We suggest avoiding flip-flops, slip on dolly shoes, sandals and high heels. These types of shoes do not offer any significant support as they place your foot in an abnormal position. This can lead to a number of foot pathologies including heel pain, bunions, toe deformities and shin splints.
- Wear good, supportive footwear that gives you enough cushioning and shock absorption. Trainers and walking boots are the preferred type of footwear.
- Stretch both before and after you exercise- your hamstrings and calves in particular.
- Avoid walking barefoot for a long time. Although walking without shoes has benefits, it can change the structure of your feet as ligaments and muscles become overstretched.
- If you are carrying weight, make sure it is well balanced. Carry your bag on both shoulders and avoid placing children on your hip as this causes postural changes. Abnormal posture leads to heel pain.
- Consider some over the counter foot supports. They can improve your posture and function of your feet. It is better to discuss your needs with a podiatrist who will advise you on the most appropriate support for your feet.
Podiatrists at Medipod Clinics are trained to treat heel pain. We understand how your foot works and we tailor a treatment plan to your needs. In most cases a combination of stretching exercises, foot supports, footwear advice, physical therapy and strapping can alleviate your discomfort. We would advise you to avoid a steroid injection unless other measures have not helped.
If you are already experiencing heel pain, we are more than happy to help. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.
We also offer other Podiatry services, Dermatology and Physiotherapy Services. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.
For more information about our podiatry services, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot related questions.
Thank you for reading.
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director
http://medipodclinics.com