Heel Pain Management

Heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, heel spurs, and bursitis. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. Heel pain most commonly affects people aged 40-60, people who are overweight. Symptoms of heel pain may include a sharp or dull pain in the heel or bottom of the foot, stiffness, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time.

Here are some common approaches to heel pain management:

• Rest and Ice: Resting the affected foot and applying ice to the heel can help reduce inflammation and pain
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Orthotics: Wearing shoe inserts or custom-made orthotics can provide support and cushioning to the heel, reducing pressure and pain
• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate heel pain and prevent it from recurring.
• Injection therapy: In some cases, injections of corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue causing the heel pain.

Need to know

What happens during surgery?

During surgery, the patient is typically placed under general anaesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and unaware of the procedure. The surgeon will make incisions to access the affected area and use specialized tools to perform the necessary procedure, such as removing diseased tissue or organs, repairing or replacing damaged parts, or suturing together tissues. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon will carefully monitor the patient’s vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, to ensure their safety. They may also use imaging technology or other specialized equipment to guide their work. After the surgery is complete, the patient will be moved to a recovery area where they will be monitored closely as they wake up from the anaesthesia.

How to prepare?

To ensure a successful surgery and recovery, it’s important to follow specific instructions from your doctor on what to eat or drink before the procedure, what medications to avoid, and when to stop eating or drinking. You may also need to purchase necessary supplies, plan for post-operative care, and prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. Discuss any concerns with your doctor for personalized advice based on your medical history and needs.

After Heel Pain surgery?

After surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for post-operative care. This may include taking medication for pain and inflammation, resting and elevating the affected foot, and wearing a protective device like a cast or brace. Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy to aid in your recovery and rehabilitation. It is important to keep any surgical incisions clean and dry and to avoid putting weight on the affected foot until your doctor says it is safe to do so. Be sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and address any concerns.