When you begin to experience foot discomfort, you might try to self-diagnose with a little research. After some digging around online or talking with friends, Frisco heel pain patients often assume that this discomfort is caused by a heel spur. However, a visit to RNV Podiatry’s Frisco office often uncovers a different root cause.
Heel Spurs and Heel Pain
A heel spur is a protrusion that has developed on the bottom of the heel bone. X-rays can often identify these growths. In cases in which Board Certified Dr. Verville determines that heel spurs are the cause of heel pain, she may recommend specific exercises, orthotics, medications, or possibly surgery.
Yet in the majority of cases that Dr. Verville sees, heel spurs are not the source of discomfort. While they can cause problems, it is important to rule out other, more common medical concerns.
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel spurs are often present when patients are actually experiencing discomfort from plantar fasciitis. A physical examination by Dr. Verville will often reveal plantar fasciitis as the underlying condition. Plantar fasciitis is a foot disorder that causes the inflammation of the tissue at the bottom of the foot that connects your heel bone to the ball of your foot (this tissue is a ligament, similar to the one injured in a sprained ankle.)
During your appointment, Dr. Verville will ask you questions regarding your heel pain such as:
- Whether your heel hurts just after you wake up in the morning.
- If stretching helps reduce the pain.
- Whether your first few steps out of bed are tight and uncomfortable but improve over time.
Heel spurs are more likely to cause discomfort throughout the day, so if you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you may experience heel pain due to plantar fasciitis. The tissue at the bottom of the foot is typically tightest and therefore most painful when it has had time to constrict, like when you are asleep.
Let Us Know How We Can Help You
Contact us if you have any questions, or if you would like to request a consultation.
Other Causes of Heel Pain
There are other potential causes for Frisco patients’ heel pain. Dr. Verville will evaluate the source of your heel pain to determine if you have:
- Achilles tendon inflammation caused by overuse. Patients feel discomfort mostly in the back of the foot.
- A stress fracture. Too much exercise can create a small crack in the heel bone. Treatment will depend on the severity of the fracture.
- Flat feet. This condition means that your arches have fallen and can strain other parts of your feet to compensate.
If you are experiencing heel pain, schedule an appointment in Frisco with Dr. Verville. Call (214) 385-8822 or make an appointment on our website.
