Our feet endure a lot on a daily basis -- walking, running, jumping and even just standing for long periods of time. Many of us increase the strain by wearing high heeled shoes, flip flops or ill fitting sneakers for hours on end. As a result, you may suffer from heel pain, also called plantar fasciitis. If everyday activities are becoming uncomfortable or even unmanageable due to your heel pain, trust in Advanced Foot and Ankle Center, with offices located in McKinney and Prosper, TX.

What can cause heel pain?

Heel pain results when the plantar fascia, which is a thick tissue connecting your heel bone and toes, becomes inflamed or irritated. This can be caused by several habits or activities:

• Wearing unsupportive, improperly sized, high heeled, or poorly made shoes
• Prolonged standing, especially on hard surfaces
• High body weight
• Tight calf muscles
• Flat feet or high arches
• Exercise that puts constant pressure on your feet such as running and jumping

What are the signs of plantar fasciitis?

• Pain on the underside of your foot near or on the heel
• Swelling or stiffness in your heel
• Pain that is most prevalent in the morning hours or upon waking
• Pain that is particularly bad in the morning
• Pain that increases when standing or when carrying heavy items

What can I do to help my heel pain?

The providers at our McKinney and Prosper offices will evaluate your foot pain and discuss your habits and activity level with you to determine the best solution for your heel pain. X-rays of your feet may also be taken. Depending on the cause, severity, frequency, or duration of your heel pain, one or more of the following may be advised:

• Using insoles, either custom made or store bought, in your shoes
• Avoiding or discontinuing wear of high heeled shoes
• Choosing supportive, properly sized footwear, especially for exercising
• Applying ice to the point of pain
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone injections
• Wearing a night splint or brace
• Reaching and maintaining a healthy body weight
• Arch stretches
• Icing of the area
• Choosing low pressure exercises like swimming over running
• Over the counter pain relievers
• Surgery at our McKinney or Prosper locations may be an option if other treatments fail to show results

Don't let heel pain slow you down. Call one of your podiatrists, Dr. Silvers, Dr. Witt, or Dr. Lloyd, at Advanced Foot and Ankle Center in McKinney or Prosper, TX, at (972) 542-2155.