October 13, 2022
It’s similar to asking “What are the best ways to treat heel pain?” The answers might differ greatly depending on the kind of athlete you’re referring to. Even though things like power, speed, agility, and endurance are almost always relevant, the ideal tennis player is probably going to look very different from an ideal basketball center—or offensive lineman!
There are a number of factors that will determine the best treatment option for heel pain, including:
- Why are you experiencing heel pain?
- Does the pain seem to be severe?
- If you weren’t experiencing heel pain, what daily activities would you normally be able to do?
We are able to come up with an ideal treatment plan once we have a diagnosis, along with your short, medium, and long-term goals. The plan may include all or some of the following:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) therapy is an at-home first aid method for controlling swelling and discomfort in the feet.
- The most common cause of heel pain is ill-fitting shoes with poor cushioning and/or support. A new pair of shoes could make a significant difference!
- It is possible to build orthotics to compensate for structural flaws, gait abnormalities, or other biomechanical inefficiencies in your feet. Orthotics are like glasses or contacts for your feet. In order to be effective, your feet need extra cushioning and support, which can be provided by custom orthotics, which are designed to fit your unique foot shape.
- A physical therapist can relieve pain and promote healing by stretching and strengthening your muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This can not only help relieve pain and promote healing, but it can also stabilize and strengthen the tissues that support your body.
- Plantar fasciitis, which occurs when your plantar fascia is stretched again after sleeping, may be helped with night splints that hold the fascia in an extended position during sleep.
- The most effective method of treating pain is to use an over-the-counter pain reliever. However, in some cases, stronger pain relievers may be necessary, such as a cortisone injection.
- Surgery. We usually recommend conservative treatment options when it comes to heel pain. However, if the condition has become severe and no other treatment is working, surgery may become a necessity.
When heel pain moves beyond the “minor, temporary annoyance” stage and starts to keep you from daily tasks or fun activities, don’t wait any longer.
You can contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.
📲 949-588-8833
🏢 24331 El Toro Rd, Suite 370 Laguna Woods CA 92637
🏢Irvine Medical Arts Building 113 Waterworks Way, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92618