Heel Pain
Conservative Treatment
The most common cause of heel pain is inflammation
of the ligament that helps form the arch – plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis
responds 90% of the time to non-surgical treatment. Treatment addresses the
inflammation of the plantar fascia which may include oral or topical anti-inflammatories
and/or steroid injection. Stretch and support are the cornerstones of treatment.
We will show you how to properly stretch the foot and what type of support is
most appropriate for your foot type. This may include a foot orthotic
(highlighted) or custom arch support which fits in the shoe.
In over 90% of all cases, plantar fasciitis responds to conservative therapy. This involves dealing
with inflammation and over use of a ligament on the bottom of the foot called
the plantar fascia. Typical treatments are: rest, ice, and anti-inflammatories
such as cortisone or ibuprofen-type drugs. This may also involve having a
custom-molded arch support or "orthotic" fabricated for long-term relief.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical management of unresolved heel pain has usually meant
releasing the tight, irregular portion of the fascia with or without resection
of a heel spur. This makes the foot unstable and requires lifetime use of
orthotics.
Now! There is a new, less debilitating option. Dr.
Goodale uses the Topaz System which is minimally invasive, has a quick recovery
time, and is clinically proven to eliminate the pain of chronic plantar fasciitis.
