How Can I Cure My Heel Pain Fast? The Pain of Plantar Fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Heel pain is a common problem that affects people at any stage of their life, but it is more common in our middle age. It can be very restricting, and last for extended periods of time for some people.
The plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone, and it can become very painful at this site. The condition is more common in active people, runners, and those who stand on flat hard floors for extended periods of time.
Diagnosis
Commonly heel pain is worse in the morning, with patients reporting the first steps being the most painful, and descending stairs being a very difficult task. As the morning progresses the pain will reduce, but return after any period of activity. Some report the pain as a dull ache, and some as a burning sharp pain that radiates through the foot.
A podiatrist can diagnose the condition with a hands on assessment. Their detailed knowledge of foot anatomy allows them to give you an accurate assessment of the foot, and identify the structure which is painful in your foot. The foot is complicated, 26 bones, many tendons and ligaments, let the experts assess your foot.
Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis
There are many treatments for plantar fasciitis, and unsurprisingly the internet will offer some quite unusual ones. Treatments which are safe, effective and have an evidence base are the way to go though, and best under the advice of a podiatrist.
- Rest
- Taping
- Orthotics
- NSAID’s (seek advice from your G.P. or pharmacy)
- Night Splints
- Shockwave Therapy
- Footwear Change
- Surgery
The Fastest Recovery
The role of a podiatrist is to guide you through the treatment using their skill and experience. A recipe approach will not always have the best results for you, which is why an assessment will inform the appropriate treatment for you. Left to their own devices the majority of cases of heel pain will resolve by 6 months. A podiatrist will aim to reduce your symptoms in the shortest possible time, while having the least impact on your day to day life in the short term.