Dr. Ari Rubinstein, a board-recognized surgeon and leading podiatrist, diagnoses and treats the underlying causes of heel pain at Lower Westchester Foot & Ankle, located in White Plains, New York. Offering a full scope of non-invasive conventional and alternative approaches to heel pain, and when necessary, surgery. 92% of patients undergoing our unique conservative approach return to normal activity within 6 weeks. If you’re experiencing heel pain, seek a diagnosis from the specialists at Lower Westchester Foot & Ankle. The practice treats patients from White Plains, as well as, the neighboring communities of Scarsdale, Harrison, Eastchester, Ardsley, Hartsdale, and Mamaroneck. Call or book online.
Heel Pain Q & A
Should Heel Pain Be a Concern?
Heel pain most often affects the backside or underside the heel. It is seldom a symptom of a serious condition but, it can interfere with normal activities, particularly when a person has to be on their feet and exercise. Like with any pain, a person should see a doctor if it becomes chronic.
Heel Pain Symptoms
Patients complain of pains, aches, and soreness in the heel, bottom of the heel, back of the heel, arch pain and side of foot pain. Others feel clicking and rubbing in the shoe, heel, and ankle. Patients often also have tightness in the calf and knee. Some feel like they are avoiding walking on their heels, and try to walk on their toes.
What Are Some of the Causes of Chronic Heel Pain?
The most common causes of chronic heel pain are a plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Other causes can include:
- Bone tumor
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Osteomyelitis
- Haglund’s deformity
- Bursitis
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Heel spur
- Paget’s disease of bone
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis
- Reactive arthritis
- Stress fractures
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sarcoidosis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
When Should a Doctor be Consulted?
A person should schedule an appointment when they have:
- Heel pain that continues when standing or walking
- Heel pain that lasts more than a few weeks
- Heel pain that persists after trying rest, ice and other home treatments
A person should see a doctor immediately when they have:
- Severe pain and swelling near their heel
- An inability to bend their foot downward, walk normally or rise on their toes
- Heel pain accompanied by fever, numbness or tingling
- Severe heel pain immediately following an injury
Can a Patient Do Anything at Home for Heel Pain?
Once a physician has examined and treated heel pain, several of the following may be suggested between visits:
- Ice — An ice pack placed on the heel for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day.
- Rest — Often, a physician will recommend avoiding activities that put stress on the heels, such as standing for long periods, walking on hard surfaces, or running.
- New shoes — Even when it isn’t possible to keep the weight off of a heel, the proper shoes can help prevent further problems.
- Foot supports — Custom-made orthotics can be prescribed by a podiatrist.