Bottom of the Heel and Arch Pain
March 14, 2022 by Dr. Moore
That first step out of bed in the morning is not only the most pain, but the most frustrating part of heel pain for my patients. Then, there is the enigma of “warming it up” by walking around and stretching, but only to have the pain return if the patient rests or sits down for a period of time.
Why? Because Heel Pain is an INJURY. If its bottom of the heel, back of the heel or side of the heel, most likely there is a direct injury or ‘overuse syndrome’ to the bone or surrounding structures like the plantar fascia, achilles tendon, peroneal tendon, or growth center (Severe’s Apophyisits).
Top 4 FAQs on google for Heel Pain:
– People also ask:
- How do I get rid of the pain in my heel?
Dr Moore: A cortisone injection is the fastest, most effective way to ‘get rid of the pain’ since it is in essence an anti inflammatory solution. Ibuprofen or other oral anti inflammatories can help as well, but some of my patients do not like taking pills. The safest form of cortisone is the water soluble varieties like dexamethasone phosphate. Then with rest, supportive shoe gear, stretching and orthotics, the cure rate can be as high as 75%. Surgery or a release of the plantar fascial ligament, with our without removal of the ‘heel spur‘ is another option if conservative treatment fails.
2. What does it mean when your heel is in pain?
Dr Moore: Outside of other issues like nerve pain, foreign body, infection, or other less common causes, heel pain is your body telling you that it is either injured or experiencing an ‘overuse syndrome’. Unlike other structures in the body, the entire weight of your body rests on your heel and ball of the foot. The pain will be worse due to the pressure and ‘torque’ that the foot experiences when standing, walking and running.
3. When should I be concerned about heel pain?
Dr Moore: You should be concerned about heel pain when it is throbbing or constant, severe pain. This level of pain is usually associated with an injury. It requires an examination and testing to rule in or rule out a serious problem like fractures, ligament tears, or tendon ruptures. The more common heel pain is usually experienced during the morning, evening, or right after resting during the day. Minor injury and overuse syndromes experience the ‘warming up’ phenomenon where the heel pain is less during activities. This is in reality a natural mechanism to cover up the pain for survival purposes. Serious heel pain is constant throughout the day with any weight bearing activity.
4. Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
Dr Moore: Yes, plantar fasciitis can go away on its own. After an xray and visit to the clinic, to rule out more serious problems, plantar fasciitis can heal on its own with rest, supportive shoes, arch supports, and stretching.
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Dr. Moore is a board certified foot and ankle surgical specialist / podiatrist in Houston, Texas. He delivers care for complex foot and ankle disorders as well as cosmetic or reconstructive procedures, problems related to sports injuries and other medical conditions in the Houston, TX area.
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-Dr Moore
