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Heel and arch pain are more common than you may think. No matter the cause, this pain, known as plantar fasciitis, can interfere with daily activities and quality of life. Pain is typically the strongest first thing in the morning or after a extended period of rest for the feet. Fortunately, with proper diagnosis, there are many options for treating and managing heel pain and arch pain. Symptoms of Heel and/or Arch Pain Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include : - Pain on the bottom of the heel or in the arch
- Pain with first step out of bed in the morning
- Pain with first steps after sitting for a long time
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- Pain in increasing in intensity or frequency
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Causes of Heel and/or Arch Pain Plantar fasciitis can be caused by : | Increase in activity Foot structure - high arched foot or a flat foot Unsupportive footwear | Walking or standing on hard surfaces Weight gain |
Treament for Heel and/or Arch PainTreatment options for plantar fasciitis can include : | Stretching Icing Avoid going barefoot Shoe modifications Antiinflammatory medications Night splint Over-the-counter or custom molded orthotics | - Padding and strapping
- Walking cast
- Steroid injection
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
- Weight loss
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The best treatment for your heel or arch pain depends upon the cause as well as the severity of your symptoms. To determine the best course of action, consult with a podiatrist.
About the Author : Dr. Jordana Szpiro is a Boston podiatrist providing comprehensive foot care and surgery to all ages. Dr Szpiro specializes in pediatric podiatry and custom molded orthotics. For more information or to contact Dr. Szpiro, visit Boston Common Podiatry. |