Heel pain / plantar fascitis

What is Heel Pain?

Heel pain is a common issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. It usually manifests as a sharp or aching pain in the heel, which can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common conditions that cause heel pain is plantar fasciitis.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot from your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed. This band supports the arch of your foot and helps absorb shock as you walk. When it’s strained, it can become swollen and painful.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common symptoms include:

• Heel Pain: Usually felt at the bottom of your heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
• Stiffness: You may notice stiffness or tightness in the heel or arch area.
• Aching: The pain can become a dull ache that worsens throughout the day, particularly after prolonged activity or standing.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:

• Overuse: Activities that put excessive strain on your feet, like running or standing for long periods, can cause inflammation.
• Foot Structure: Flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal walking pattern can stress the plantar fascia.
• Improper Footwear: Shoes lacking proper arch support or cushioning can contribute to heel pain.
• Weight Gain: Excess weight can put added pressure on your feet and exacerbate the condition.
• Tight Calf Muscles: Tightness in your calf muscles can affect the plantar fascia and increase the risk of inflammation.

Diagnosis

To diagnose plantar fasciitis, our specialists at Pristine Poliklinic will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:

• Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, lifestyle, and any recent activities that might have contributed to the pain.
• Physical Examination: Assessing your foot’s structure, gait, and areas of tenderness.
• Imaging Tests: Sometimes, X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options

At Pristine Poliklinic, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your needs. Our goal is to reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent future issues. Here’s a look at some of the options we provide:

1. Rest and Ice

• Rest: Reducing activities that put stress on your feet can help ease inflammation.
• Ice: Applying ice packs to the heel can reduce swelling and numb the pain.

2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

• Stretching: Exercises that stretch the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can alleviate pain and improve flexibility.
• Strengthening: Strengthening exercises for the foot and lower leg can support the arch and reduce strain.

3. Footwear and Orthotics

• Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning can make a significant difference.
• Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can provide additional support and alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia.

4. Physical Therapy

• Therapeutic Exercises: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen your foot and leg muscles.
• Manual Therapy: Techniques like massage and joint mobilization can help reduce pain and improve function.

5. Medications and Injections

• Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For severe cases, injections may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation directly at the site.

6. Advanced Treatments

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to promote healing in the affected area.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP involves injecting a concentration of platelets derived from your blood to accelerate healing.

Prevention Tips

Preventing plantar fasciitis and heel pain involves some simple lifestyle adjustments:

• Wear Supportive Shoes: Invest in shoes with good arch support and cushioning.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keeping your weight in check reduces stress on your feet.
• Practice Foot Exercises: Regularly stretch and strengthen your feet and legs.
• Avoid Overuse: Gradually increase the intensity of physical activities to avoid overstraining your feet.

When to Seek Help

If your heel pain persists despite home treatments or worsens over time, it’s essential to seek professional help. Ignoring the symptoms could lead to more severe issues or chronic pain. At Pristine Poliklinic, our specialists are dedicated to providing the care you need to get back to a pain-free life.

Why Choose Pristine Poliklinic?

At Pristine Poliklinic, we stand out for several reasons:

• Expert Team: Our experienced specialists provide top-notch care tailored to your needs.
• Personalized Plans: We customize treatment plans to suit your specific condition and lifestyle.
• Advanced Facilities: We use the latest technology and equipment for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
• Comprehensive Care: From initial assessment to advanced therapies, we offer a full range of services in one place.
• Patient-Centered: We prioritize your comfort and offer clear communication and support throughout your treatment.
• Proven Results: Our effective treatments have helped many patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
• Convenient Location: Easily accessible with flexible appointment times to fit your schedule.
• Ongoing Support: We provide education and follow-up care to help you manage and prevent heel pain.