Heel Pain

MetroWest Podiatry

Brian Wascavage, DPM

Foot & Ankle Surgeon & Podiatrist located in Framingham, MA & Marlboro, MA

Your feet endure tons of stress for every mile you walk — stress that your heels absorb — so it’s no surprise that heel pain is a common foot problem. Brian Wascavage, DPM, at MetroWest Podiatry has years of experience helping people get long-term relief from heel pain. Don’t let your heel pain worsen. Call the office in Framingham or Marlborough, Massachusetts, or book an appointment online to get prompt treatment.

Heel Pain Q&A

What causes heel pain?

There are many possible causes of heel pain. For instance, running on an uneven surface and wearing shoes that don’t provide enough support or cushioning can cause heel pain.

The most common causes of heel pain are:

Plantar fasciitis
Heel spurs
Achilles tendonitis and tendonosis
Heel bursitis
Stress fractures
Arthritis
Nerve irritation

Because of the wide range of possible causes for heel pain, it’s important to have a skilled podiatrist like Dr. Wascavage make a proper diagnosis so you can receive effective treatment.

What are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs?

Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are the top reasons men and women end up with heel pain. It occurs when the ligament that connects your heel to the base of your toes (the plantar fascia) becomes inflamed.

Plantar fasciitis develops gradually over time due to stress caused by various problems such as flat feet and a tight Achilles tendon or calf muscle.

Heel spurs occur when excess bone accumulates in response to local inflammation. Many patients with plantar fasciitis develop heel spurs where the tendon attaches to the heel bone.

How does the Achilles tendon cause heel pain?

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel bone. Inflammation of the tendon, called Achilles tendonitis, often develops from repetitive activities that cause small tears in the tendon.

When you stay active, your body doesn’t have time to heal the tiny tears, leading to worsening damage and inflammation. As the tendon weakens, you’ll feel pain on the back of your heel.

How is heel pain treated?

The first line of treatment for heel pain consists of conservative measures. Dr. Wascavage may recommend taking a temporary break from activities contributing to the problem or teach you exercises to stretch your tendons and ligaments.

He may also prescribe orthotic shoe inserts to cushion, protect, and support your heel. In some cases, you may need new shoes that fit better and provide optimal support.

If necessary, Dr. Wascavage can remove damaged tissues, eliminate a bone spur, or repair the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon when necessary.

You don’t need to suffer through heel pain — expert help is available. Schedule an appointment by calling MetroWest Podiatry or booking online.

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