Heel Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

If you struggle with recurring heel pain you know the impact it can have on your ability to perform everyday tasks and your overall quality of life. As with any condition for which pain is a symptom, it's important to seek help as soon as possible since pain typically signals that something needs to be corrected, or you risk complications. The good news is that there is help available if you struggle with heel pain. In their spacious Fairfax, VA office, Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan can offer a variety of state-of-the-art treatment options to help relieve your symptoms. Learn more by reaching out to Dr. My Hoa Kaas and Dr. Jay Ryan of Virginia Foot and Ankle Center.

Causes

 Heel pain is most commonly caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis, which can be caused by factors like the following:

• Stress and overuse of the plantar fascia (a thick ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot), can cause it to become inflamed and cause heel pain.
• If you're an athlete or work at a job that involves a lot of standing and walking, especially over hard surfaces, you're at greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
• Inversely, being overweight can also put undue stress on your plantar fascia, resulting in the same symptoms.

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, but is only one of many possible reasons for your pain. If you're experiencing heel pain it's important to meet with your podiatrist so they can diagnose the underlying cause of your heel pain and recommend the appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnosis of heel pain is usually done by performing a physical examination and imaging tests, but it will depend on your symptoms.

Heel Pain Treatment Options in Fairfax, VA

Your podiatrist may recommend the use of orthotic devices, a walking cast, a night splint, or physical therapy  to reduce discomfort in the morning. But if these approaches aren't producing the desired results then your doctor may suggest other options, including advanced treatment such as stem cell or PRP injections, other types of Injections, even new minimally invasive surgery options if your condition requires it.

Explore your heel pain treatment options in and around the Fairfax, VA, area by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan of Virginia Foot and Ankle Center by dialing (703) 205-0770.