The warm weather is back, and people are getting outdoors after many months of social distancing. That means a lot of wear and tearon the feet. Especially sensitive is the heel area of your foot. Here are some of the most common heel problems that you need to be on the watch for this summer.
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation in this area can cause pain from the heel down to the toes. This condition is called plantar fasciitis and in extreme cases can even be debilitating. It’s most often caused by either a high or collapsed arch, spending too much time on the feet, or bearing a lot of weight.
Heel Spurs
You can get heel spurs when calcium deposits build up over many months in your heel. Heel spurs are common in athletes, diabetics, or anyone who spends a great deal of time on their feet. This can cause a sharp pain that decreases mobility.
Treatment for Heel Pain
It’s best to visit a qualified podiatrist to assess the causes of your heel pain, but a good doctor can recommend several treatments. One option is custom orthotics. These are specially designed foot inserts that are customized to your unique foot shape. Your doctor may also recommend a device called an Air Heel. This is an ankle support brace that can help reduce swelling and enhance circulation by applying pulsating compression with every step. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy is another great option. This procedure is non-invasive and a great alternative to surgery. It uses sound waves to increase blood flow to problem areas and increase the body’s own ability to heal. It’s vital to protect your heel health. If you are experiencing any heel pain see your foot doctor for proper treatment and to help prevent complications. At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Melissa Robitaille and Dr. Todd Newsom treat virtually all types of foot and ankle disorders including bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, and heel pain. Equipped with leading-edge technologies such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) and laser surgery for toenail fungus, we provide specialized, compassionate service for patients in the Pooler, Georgia area of Chatham County. For any pain and discomfort you are experiencing with your feet and ankles, contact us today at (912) 988-3323.