Our Services / Heel Pain

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is aching, stiffness, or discomfort that affects the bottom of your foot just below your ankle. The heel is the most prominent bone in your foot. It helps you maintain your balance and plays an essential role in movements like walking and running.

It's normal to experience heel pain after long periods of standing or strenuous exercise. Even so, if your symptoms get worse or affect your daily routine, it's important to seek treatment.

What are some common causes of heel pain?

At Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Clinic, Dr. Prakash treats heel pain caused by various issues, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Sprains and strains
• Fractures
• Achilles tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Reactive arthritis

You might also experience heel pain if you suffer a work- or sports-related injury.

Does heel pain require professional treatment?

Make an appointment with Dr. Prakash at Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Clinic if you experience heel pain and it doesn’t respond to at-home treatment, like taking anti-inflammatory medication. That’s especially true if your pain occurs alongside other symptoms like redness, swelling, or bruising in your heel.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

To diagnose heel pain, Dr. Prakash reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including the severity of your pain, if it extends into other areas of your body, and if it's worse at certain times of the day. 

Next, Dr. Prakash has you remove your shoes and socks and examines your foot and heel. During the exam, he gently presses on your heel to pinpoint areas of sensitivity. Dr. Prakash might also have you stand up and walk around the exam room to assess your gait and foot mechanics. 

If Dr. Prakash suspects you have a fracture or a dislocated joint, he might also order X-rays.

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment of heel pain depends on various factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your daily routine. Whenever possible, Dr. Prakash recommends conservative treatments, like getting plenty of rest, icing your heel, and taking anti-inflammatory medication. 

You might also benefit from wearing more comfortable shoes, custom orthotics, heel pads, or inserts. If conservative treatments don’t provide lasting relief, surgical intervention might be necessary. Dr. Prakash has experience performing traditional open heel surgery and minimally invasive heel surgery.

To receive comprehensive care for heel pain, make an appointment at Lake Washington Foot and Ankle Clinic by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.