HEEL & FOOT PAIN
Heel and Foot Pain Care at Park Road Podiatry
Foot and heel pain are common, and they can affect people of all ages and lifestyles. Whether it’s the result of an injury, overuse, or an underlying medical condition, foot and / or heel pain can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. At Park Road Podiatry, our podiatry team provides expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of heel and foot conditions. If you’re struggling with persistent pain, we’re here to help you get back on your feet and move comfortably again.
Heel and foot pain can stem from various conditions, each with their own symptoms and causes. Below are some of the most common issues we treat at Park Road Podiatry:
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes irritated or inflamed. This condition typically causes sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Plantar fasciitis is often caused by overuse, poor footwear, or abnormal walking patterns.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon at the back of the ankle that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is often caused by repetitive strain, especially in people who engage in high-impact sports or activities. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, especially after physical activity or prolonged use.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis, as they can form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel bone due to repeated stress. Heel spurs can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when walking or standing for long periods.
Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often causing pain, swelling, and redness. They occur when the big toe becomes misaligned, causing pressure on the joint. Bunions can make walking uncomfortable and can even lead to secondary foot problems like hammertoes and calluses.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves between the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It causes pain, tingling, or a burning sensation in the ball of the foot and can feel like you have a small stone or lump in your shoe. Morton’s neuroma is typically caused by wearing tight shoes or repetitive pressure on the forefoot.
Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire foot to make contact with the ground. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, especially after standing or walking for extended periods. Flat feet can contribute to other problems, such as heel pain, shin splints, and knee pain, as they can affect the alignment of the entire lower body.
General Foot Overuse or Injury
Sometimes, heel and foot pain can be caused by overuse or injuries, such as sprains, strains, or fractures. Overuse from excessive walking, running, or standing can also result in fatigue and pain in the feet and heels. In these cases, rest, proper footwear, and physiotherapy may be recommended to ease the pain.
Treatment for Heel and Foot Pain
At Park Road Podiatry, we provide a range of treatments tailored to your specific condition to help alleviate heel and foot pain. Our goal is to address the root cause of the pain and provide relief through a combination of therapies and strategies:
Physical Therapy
Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve mobility and reduce tension in the foot and heel.
Phits Orthotics
Specially designed insoles to correct foot alignment and reduce pressure on the affected areas.
Heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, and overuse. It is often characterised by sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
Plantar fasciitis is typically treated with rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotic insoles, and proper footwear. In some cases, shockwave therapy or corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
You can relieve foot pain by resting the foot, applying ice to the affected area, wearing supportive shoes, and doing gentle stretching exercises for the foot and calf muscles. Over-the-counter pain relief medications may also help reduce inflammation.
If your foot or heel pain persists for more than a few days or is affecting your ability to walk, it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and help you return to pain-free movement.
Ready for relief?