Treat Your Heel Pain
Nothing slows you down quite like sore, aching, painful heels. Whether you’re a runner prepping for your next race, a parent chasing kids around the house, a farmer, a factory worker, or a senior trying to stay active and independent, heel pain interferes with daily living and keeps you from what you love.
If you are having any kind of trouble with heel pain, it’s time for a chat with your podiatrist. Don’t shrug it off and pretend it’s just “part of growing older.” It isn’t! Heel pain is not normal, and our team specializes in helping you get rid of it and go back to leading a fulfilling, active life!
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Plantar Fasciitis
The most common cause of heel pain in adults, plantar fasciitis, occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot—becomes inflamed. The pain often feels sharp and intense, particularly with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for an extended period of time.
Achilles Tendinitis
Often seen in runners and active individuals, Achilles tendinitis causes pain in the back of the heel. It develops from overuse or tight calf muscles, leading to inflammation and discomfort during activity.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths on the underside of the heel bone that can cause pain when standing or walking, especially when combined with plantar fasciitis.
Other Causes
Heel pain can also result from:
- Arthritis
- Stress fractures
- Nerve compression
- Bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the heel)
At-Home Relief & Lifestyle Changes
While mild heel pain can often be managed with at-home care, early action is key to preventing chronic issues. Helpful strategies include:
- Rest & Ice: Reduce inflammation by limiting high-impact activities and applying ice packs.
- Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches for the calves and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension.
- Supportive Footwear: Steer clear of high heels, thin-soled flats, and shoes that have lost their structure.
- Over-the-Counter Orthotics: Prefabricated insoles can help provide cushioning and correct minor biomechanical issues.
Advanced Treatment Options
If your heel pain persists, our podiatry team at Irving Foot and Ankle offers proven, non-surgical solutions:
- Custom Orthotics: Designed to match your exact foot structure for optimal comfort and alignment.
- Physical Therapy & Stretching: Improves foot and ankle strength while reducing stress on the heel.
- Night Splints & Taping: Keeps tissues elongated overnight or supports the arch during daily activities.
- Cortisone & Prolotherapy Injections: Provides targeted relief for severe inflammation.
When to See a Podiatrist
You should schedule an appointment if:
- Discomfort continues for more than two weeks despite self-care efforts.
- You experience severe morning stiffness or difficulty walking.
- There is swelling, redness, or burning pain in your heel.
Expert Podiatrist in Irving, TX
At Irving Foot and Ankle, Dr. Kent Olsen and our team specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of heel pain. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term foot health. Whether you need advanced therapies or traditional care, we’re here to help you move without pain. Don’t wait! Call (972) 254-0680 today or book online for expert heel pain treatment in Irving, TX.