As if you're constantly stepping on nails, certain heel problems can shoot pain into your foot with every step. Fortunately, if you are dealing with this issue, expert care from Dr. Martin Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam of Capital Region Foot Care in Albany, NY, can help alleviate it. Read on to learn more.

Why does your heel hurt?

Some heel pain comes from plantar warts, small, hardened bumps caused by a virus. They appear singly or in clusters on the heel or other areas of your feet. At our Albany, NY, office, your podiatrist may use heat, cryosurgery, salicylic acid, or even laser surgery to remove warts completely.

Another common reason for heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Often co-existing with heel spurs (bony projections off the front of the calcaneus bone), plantar fasciitis involves painful inflammation of the connective tissue in the arch of the foot.

Typically worse in the morning, plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages and lifestyles, but more frequently it affects runners, middle-aged individuals, and those whose jobs require much standing. Excess body weight and overpronation (improper placement of the foot when you walk) also contribute to this podiatric condition.

Managing plantar fasciitis

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of chronic heel pain, with effects that are particularly strong in the morning and then lessen throughout the day. However, a strenuous gym workout can also aggravate this condition at any time.

At Capital Region Foot Care, Dr. Ginsburg and Dr. Lam diagnose plantar fasciitis based on symptoms and hands-on examination of the foot, ankle, and calf.

Fortunately, conservative programs of relief usually prove successful in managing symptoms. Your particular treatment plan may include:

• A program of daily stretching exercises, especially for the calf muscle
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen
• Cortisone injections
• Rest
• Ice
• Elevation
• Arch supports worn in well-supportive shoes (with laces if possible)
• Heel cups or cushions

Sometimes, when a condition is severe and unresponsive to conservative treatments, surgery is needed.  

It's time to feel better

You have suffered long enough with your heel pain. Get the help you deserve from Dr. Martin Ginsburg and Dr. Steven Lam in Albany, NY. For more information or to book an appointment, please contact the office at (518) 465-3515.