Heel pain can make simple daily activities like walking both difficult and painful. Fortunately, various treatment options are available to provide relief from this common issue. Dr. Eric Arp, your experienced podiatrist here at Arp Foot and Ankle Clinic in Harrison and Mountain Home, AR, can develop an individualized plan to treat your heel pain.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can be caused by several factors. For instance, frequently performing repetitive motions can lead to pain and discomfort in the heels. Other causes of heel pain include arthritis, tendonitis, stress fractures, heel spurs, and foot injuries. Of the many possible causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common. It is associated with pain on the bottom of the heel that grows more intense throughout the day and often becomes progressively worse over time.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the band of plantar fascia tissues that run along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed and irritated. People with flat feet or extremely high arches are especially prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Other causes of this condition include wearing shoes that are not supportive for long periods of time. Obesity can also be a factor in the development of heel pain due to plantar fasciitis.

Treatments for Heel Pain

There are many treatment options that can help you find relief from heel pain. Minor heel pain that is not due to a chronic condition can be treated by resting the foot, limiting physical activities, and applying ice to the affected area. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can also alleviate pain. Wearing supportive shoes that are well cushioned can provide relief from heel pain once it develops or even help prevent it from occurring in the first place.

Heel pain that is more severe or chronic should be treated by a doctor. Dr. Arp, the skilled podiatrist at our clinics in Harrison and Mountain Home, AR, can recommend specific treatment methods for alleviating your heel pain. Treatment options include:

• Custom Orthotics
• Padding and Strapping
• Physical Therapy
• Corticosteroids
• Walking Cast
• Night Splint

In some cases, surgery might be needed to provide lasting relief from heel pain. Surgery can correct structural problems in the foot that are causing pain and discomfort. Surgery is also beneficial for removing painful heel spurs or calluses that have developed on the bottom of the heel.

It is possible to find relief from your heel pain. Dr. Arp can create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. To schedule an appointment with the podiatrist, call Arp Foot and Ankle Clinic in Harrison, AR, at (870) 365-3668. We also have a clinic in Mountain Home that can be reached by calling (870) 425-7363.