Heel pain can make it quite challenging for you to participate in your day-to-day activities because it makes it very difficult for you to walk. Walking is essential while working and since you heal has some issues, your productivity at work is also reduced. Therefore, if you are experiencing leg pain and seeking relief, Dr. Han Nguyen is one of the qualified specialists who will provide a solution to your concernA podiatrist who diagnoses and treats heel pain using cutting-edge techniques like radial shockwave therapy and MLS laser therapy always suggests you to wear heel pain relief socks to help you restore your quality of life and reduce your discomfort. Below is all you are required to know concerning heel pain.
What is heel pain?
Generally, heel pain causes throbbing, aching, and discomfort at the back or bottom of your heel. Heel pain is commonly due to tear and wear, more serious underlying conditions, or overuse of your leg. And if it is left untreated, it can easily progress and become a very chronic issue. Therefore, if your pain is persistent and prevents you from participating in your daily routine effectively, you are required to seek medical help.
What are some common causes of heel pain?
They include bursitis, sprains and strains, fractures, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendonitis. Therefore, when your heel pain is severe, causing swelling and redness, or affecting your ability to walk or stand, you should seek medical assistance.
How is heel pain diagnosed?
The health care specialists in the facility usually diagnose heel pain by performing a physical examination of your feet. Therefore, during your first appointment, the care provider gently exerts pressure on your heel to examine where the problem could be and assess it for warmth, discoloration, or swelling. However, if a visual examination is not enough, your care provider might order some diagnostic imaging tests like MRI or x-ray. The tests are essential because they provide detailed pictures of the soft tissues, bones, and joints of your ankles, feet, and heels.
How is heel pain treated?
Typically, the treatment option offered for your heel pain depends on the intensity of your symptoms and the cause. Therefore, the health care team recommends the use of conservative measures such as ice, rest, and taking over-the-counter medications to alleviate pain. However, if your pain persists, you can get relief from custom orthotics, physical therapy, or a night splint.
But if your heel pain is due to Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, the care providers offer radial shockwave therapy or MSL laser therapy. Typically, radial shockwave therapy involves using high-energy acoustic waves to help increase blood circulation in your feet, limiting inflammation and pain. On the other hand, MSL laser therapy uses concentrated light energy to stimulate the natural healing process of your body. Other treatment options include injections to treat chronic Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
Since heel pain can affect your productivity at your workplace or prevent you from participating in your daily activities, treatment is always recommended. Therefore, if you are experiencing heel pain and seeking relief, you can get started by calling or booking your appointment at Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates today.
