Heel pain, also known as plantar fasciitis is a musculoskeletal problem where the patient experiences under heel pain or pain inside the arch of the foot. Someone experiencing this type of pain requires heel pain treatment.
Many people with heel pain think that they experienced some type of trauma to the foot. However, the truth is that heel pain is caused by overstretching of the tissue in the arch of the foot. There are two main ways in which a patient develop heel pain.
- Gradually over time
- A Sudden overstretch of the arch of the foot
Who is at risk of heal pain
Keep in mind that everyone at any age can experience heel pain. However, some people are more prone to the condition than others are. Individuals who are at the most risk of heel pain include:
- People over 40 years of age
- People in jobs that require a lot of standing
- People who take part in strenuous exercises
Why it takes a long time to recover
Many types of musculoskeletal injuries will heal after the patient takes time to rest. However plantar fasciitis is different. This is because it is hard for patients to stop walking and therefore do not dedicate enough time for the tissues to heal.
Think of an injury to the elbow. It is possible to stop using one arm and to shift work to the other arm. This allows the injured arm or elbow to heal. However, it is not possible to do this with plantar fasciitis as people are always using their feet. There is minimal time provided between walks for the tissues to heal.
During the morning when you start to use your feet, you may notice that the heel is tender. This is the body trying to heal the tendons that are parallel to the sole of your feet. When you walk in such a condition you will tear the mending that the body is trying to perform.
Consequently, since the injury is under constant aggravation through walking, it becomes difficult to heal. The heel may also swell due to the inflammation caused by exerting pressure.
Heel pain and people in entertainment
For people in the entertainment industry, such as musicians and dancers, it is crucial to take preventative measures to avoid heel pain. After all, this can keep you off the camera for a while. In case you experience an injury, contacting a doctor with many years of experience can help ensure a fast recovery.
What you should know about heel pain treatment
- The diagnosis
Plantar fasciitis is the major cause of heel pain. However, it is not the only cause. Other causes include tendonitis, inflammatory arthritis, or nerve impingement. After booking an appointment with your doctor, it is important to provide them with your medical history. The doctor will also perform a thorough physical examination. Only them will they be able to provide the right diagnosis.
Make sure that you choose a clinic with many years of experience such as Physioactive. This will ensure that you get the best care.
- Heel pain and structure of your foot
People with all foot types whether flat feet, high arched or normal feet can experience plantar fasciitis. The trick is for the doctor to provide the right to heel pain treatment.
That said, the type of treatment will depend on the type of feet. Those with higher arches require stretching which flat feet require strengthening. The doctor will evaluate your situation and create an ideal healing program for you.
- Using heel cushions
Many people who require heel pain treatment will often purchase heel cushions. These are constructed from either silicone or foam. While they may offer temporary relief, they are not a solution for the heel pain. The paradox is that walking on hard surfaces is not ideal either.
- Find the right orthotics
One option for dealing with heel pain is using orthotics. However, it is important to choose the right one for your feet. Some will aggravate the condition by pushing into the arch and adding pressure. The right orthotics should offer complete foot support.
Moreover, the best type of orthotics is a soft full-length orthotics. Keep away from orthotics made of hard plastic.
- Footwear
You must choose the right shoes for you. Avoid shoes that are too flat or too high. Ironically, it is also important to avoid shoes that are too cushioned. You will work closely with your doctor and they will advise you on the right type of shoes to wear during the healing period.
Final thoughts
Heel pain treatment requires not just medical attention but physiological as well. You will work closely with your doctor to find the right treatment, orthotics as well as the proper shoes to ensure a fast recovery.
PhysioActive
Camden Medical Centre #11-05
Singapore 248649
+65 6235 2647
