Heel Pain Specialists in Ocoee, FL
Heel pain is one of the most common foot-related health problems. If you experience heel pain and it doesn’t subside with conservative treatments like rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain medication, don’t wait to seek professional help. At West Orange Podiatry, expert podiatrist Michael Laliberte, DPM, uses conservative methods of care to effectively relieve heel pain. To make an appointment at the practice in Ocoee, Florida, call the office today or schedule online.
FAQ's About Heel Pain
Heel pain refers to any stiffness, swelling, or general discomfort that affects the area of your foot just beneath your ankle. Some people experience mild heel pain that resolves on its own. Others experience persistent pain that makes it difficult to stand up, walk, or exercise.
At West Orange Podiatry, Dr. Laliberte treats heel pain caused by various conditions, including:
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that damages your plantar fascia –– a band of fibrous tissue that runs from your heel to your toes. Over time, the plantar fascia develops small tears that become inflamed, resulting in heel pain and stiffness.
Sports injuries
If you play sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis, you’re more likely to experience a sprain or strain. Strains and sprains vary in severity. Some cause immediate swelling and immobility; others are mild and respond to ice and rest.
Achilles tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis occurs due to inflammation of your Achilles tendon — a thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel. In most cases, Achilles tendonitis occurs due to repetitive or intense strain caused by running or other high-impact activities.
Fractures
Fractures occur when a bone breaks or develops a crack. Hairline fractures are microscopic and typically heal on their own with rest and conservative care. More serious fractures may require casting or surgery.
Make an appointment at West Orange Podiatry if your heel pain is:
- Severe.
- Occurs suddenly.
- Associated with redness or swelling.
- So bad it affects your ability to walk or exercise.
You should also visit Dr. Laliberte if you experience heel pain that lasts for more than a few days and doesn’t respond to conservative treatment.
To diagnose heel pain, Dr. Laliberte reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities, like work or exercise, make them worse.
Next, Dr. Laliberte assesses your ankle’s strength and range of motion. If these tests don’t provide enough insight into your condition, he might also order X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan.
At West Orange Podiatry, Dr. Laliberte uses conservative measures of care to treat heel pain, including:
- Rest.
- Ice.
- Over-the-counter pain medication.
- Night splints.
- Heel lifts or shoe inserts.
- Custom orthotics.
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT).
If these treatments don’t provide adequate relief or your symptoms persist, Dr. Laliberte might recommend surgery.