Heel Pain

More than 2 million Americans experience heel pain every year, and it’s one of the most common issues Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons treats. Led by Kaveh Panahi, DPM, the practice offers exceptional heel pain care for patients of all ages in Peoria and Phoenix, Arizona. Whether you have plantar fasciitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or a stress fracture, the expert providers offer unique treatments to fit your needs. To find out more, call the practice today or fill out an online appointment request.

What are the causes of heel pain? 

You may experience heel pain behind the heel, beneath the heel, or within the heel bone itself. Several conditions can lead to heel pain:

Plantar Fasciitis

For Americans, plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the ligament on the bottom of your heel and arch tears or stretches due to overuse or injury. Read More About Plantar Fasciitis.   

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS)  

Flatfoot deformity, chronic swelling, arthritis, diabetes, and varicose veins are the most common causes of TTS. Read More About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Haglund's deformity  

Also called a “pump bump,” this is a gradual growth of bone on the back of your heel that becomes painful over time. 

Achilles tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel bone — when overused, it can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the back of your heel.

Bursitis

Bursitis can occur if you spend a lot of time on your feet, causing fluid-filled sacs (bursae) to swell. 

Stress fracture

This is a rare condition that usually develops only in patients participating in high-impact activities.

Reach out to the practice if you have persistent, severe heel pain, swelling, or tingling.

What are nonsurgical treatment for heel pain?

Dr. Panahi may first recommend several nonsurgical methods to treat your heel pain, including:

• Rest
• Ice
• New shoes
• Pain medications 
• Physical therapy
• Bracing or splints 
• Taping
• Steroid injections
• Custom orthotics  Learn More About Orthotics
• Protective boots (for stress fractures) 

The practice reserves surgical procedures for patients who don’t find relief with conservative, nonsurgical care.

What are surgical treatment for heel pain?

Before recommending surgery, Dr. Panahi performs a thorough exam, orders an X-ray, and may suggest other tests. 

For TTS, a tarsal tunnel release surgical procedure allows Dr. Panahi to create an opening behind your ankle that extends down to the arch of your foot. He carefully divides the ligament so it’s not pressing against your tibial nerve.

For Haglund's deformity, Dr. Panahi can remove the heel bump, and for Achilles tendinitis, he can repair your Achilles tendon.

Endoscopic, in-office surgery involves two small incisions under your ankle bone. Dr. Panahi inserts a small camera (endoscope) in one of the openings and a tiny knife in the other to release your plantar fascia and relieve pain.

To learn more about heel pain treatment, call Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons today or schedule an appointment online.