Our Services / Heel Pain

What is heel pain?

Heel pain causes discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity that affects the heel (the biggest bone in your foot). 

Everyone experiences some form of heel pain. Usually, it responds to conservative treatment and gets better within a few days. However, if you suffer from heel pain that doesn’t improve, it’s important to seek professional medical help.

What causes heel pain?

Heel pain occurs for various reasons, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Bone spurs
• Bursitis
• Inflamed tendons

You may also experience heel pain due to a foot or ankle fracture.

Who is at risk of experiencing heel pain?

Heel pain can affect people of all ages, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being overweight
• Having foot or ankle arthritis
• Playing sports that involve running or jumping
• Spending most of the day on your feet

If you wear shoes that don’t support or cushion your feet, you’re also more likely to develop heel pain. 

How is heel pain diagnosed?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo diagnoses heel pain during a visit in the office. 

First, Dr. DeCarbo reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain occurs, when it first started, and if you’ve tried changing shoes. Next, he will ask you to take off your shoes and socks before examining your heels. Dr. DeCarbo gently presses on them to pinpoint areas of sensitivity or swelling.

If Dr. DeCarbo suspects an underlying issue (like a fracture or a bone spur), he may order X-rays. X-rays are a type of diagnostic imaging that captures detailed photos of your bones and joints.

How is heel pain treated?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo treats heel pain with conservative, noninvasive measures when possible. Depending on your age and health history, he may recommend:

• Corticosteroid injections
• Custom orthotics 
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Taping

If your heel pain doesn’t improve or becomes worse, Dr. DeCarbo may recommend surgery (but only as a last resort). 

How long does it take for heel pain to improve?

The length of time that it takes for your heel pain to improve depends on several factors, including the underlying problem and your commitment to Dr. DeCarbo’s treatment plan. 

Most people experience some relief within the first few weeks of treatment, but it may take longer for others. It’s important to follow Dr. DeCarbo’s instructions carefully, and make sure to attend each follow-up visit.

To make an appointment for heel pain treatment, call the Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center in Wexford, Pennsylvania, or book online today.