GOT HEEL PAIN?

In the past several years, the incidence of heel pain has been on the rise with an epidemic-size magnitude.

Consider: 25% of Americans will be affected by heel pain sometime in their lives!
Far too often, patients wait to see me about their heel pain until it becomes unbearable. Please know that you do not have to suffer! Heel pain can be treated early and quickly eased without the need for surgery over 95% of the time. If you come in at the first sign of pain, it is almost guaranteed that together we can fix whatever the heel problem is.

Why this epidemic?
There are many reasons to explain this phenomenon, but three factors stand out:
1. Non-supportive footwear. Flip-flops and soft sandals are not only unsupportive, but can set one up for injuries due to foot instability in these flimsy but popular types of footgear.
2. Our increasingly athletic lifestyles: this is a seeming paradox because exercise has so many healthy benefits.
3. Increasing obesity: carrying extra pounds increases strain on all foot structures which can lead to strains, sprains and other pathology that can result in foot pain.

The common thread in most all types of heel pain is a hereditary foot imbalance that causes overuse and strain of the foot supporting structures. This intricate network of anatomical parts must be balanced properly in order to prevent foot, leg, hip, and back pain.

By far,the most common type of heel pain is pain on the bottom of the foot, called Plantar Fasciitis. This is due to inflammation of the attachment of the plantar fascia where it connects to the heel bone.

The typical symptoms are pain when arising from bed or a sitting position. If treated early when symptoms first appear, the problem can be easily treated. Delay lengthens treatment time and risks the need for surgery.