Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems, affecting 17%-24% of American adults. Thankfully, non- and minimally invasive treatments can quickly relieve symptoms and get you back on your feet. At Valley Stream Foot Doctor in Valley Stream, New York, experienced podiatrist Marc Schumann, DPM, specializes in heel pain treatment. After an exam, he can make personalized recommendations to help you feel better. Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to schedule heel pain treatment, or book your appointment online today.

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is discomfort, aching, or stiffness that occurs anywhere in your heel. It’s commonly caused by overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, but can also point to structural problems or an abnormal gait (walking pattern).

Most heel pain improves with rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, but if your symptoms last more than a few days, schedule professional treatment. Dr. Schumann can identify the cause and prevent it from worsening.

What causes heel pain?

At Valley Stream Foot Doctor, Dr. Schumann treats heel pain caused by:

• Achilles tendonitis (Achilles tendon inflammation)
• Bursitis (Swelling of the fluid-filled bursa sacs that pad the joints)
• Haglund’s deformity (a painful, swollen bump at the back of the heel)
• Sever’s disease (a type of heel pain that commonly affects kids and teens)
• Bone bruises
• Stress fractures
• Plantar fasciitis

Sometimes, heel pain is due to heel spurs, bony growths that form on the heel bone due to repetitive trauma.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

Dr. Schumann reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a podiatry exam. He checks your heel for redness, bruising, and swelling; asks you to walk around to observe your gait; and gently presses on the bottom and sides of your heel to identify sensitive spots.

If these steps don’t provide enough information, Dr. Schumann orders diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, an MRI, or an ultrasound. These tests let him check for broken bones, joint damage, and soft tissue problems invisible to the naked eye.

How is heel pain treated?

At Valley Stream Foot Doctor, Dr. Schumann takes an integrative and minimally invasive approach to treating heel pain. He may recommend:

• Taking anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling
• Icing your heel several times daily
• Applying athletic or medical tape to provide support for your heel and arch
• Physical therapy to reduce inflammation and restore mobility
• Custom orthotics (prescription shoe inserts)
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and swelling
• Immobilization with a walking boot or cast

Heel pain can be challenging to treat, so it may take several approaches to achieve lasting relief. To ensure a positive outcome, follow Dr. Schumann’s instructions, attend each of your checkups, and don’t rush back into physical activity. 

Call Valley Stream Foot Doctor to schedule heel pain treatment, or book your appointment online today.