Heel Pain
Heel pain treatment in Thane. Most heel pain comes from plantar fasciitis or the Achilles tendon, and most of it settles with stretching, the right footwear and time, without surgery.
Why Does My Heel Hurt?
Heel pain is very common, especially in people who stand for long hours, walk barefoot on hard floors at home, have recently put on weight, or have started a new exercise routine. Where the pain is felt is the best clue to its cause.
Pain Under the Heel
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue running along the sole from the heel to the toes, supporting the arch. When it is overloaded, it becomes painful where it attaches to the heel bone.
The classic sign is sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after sitting, which eases a little as you walk, then returns after long periods on your feet.
Pain at the Back of the Heel
Achilles tendinopathy is wear and irritation of the Achilles tendon, either where it attaches to the heel or a little higher up. It causes pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, often worst in the morning and with activity. Tight or rigid shoe backs can make it worse.
Other Causes
- Fat pad thinning: the natural cushion under the heel becomes thinner with age, so standing on hard floors hurts.
- Stress fracture of the heel bone: from a sudden increase in walking or running.
- Nerve irritation: burning or tingling pain that can spread into the foot.
- Inflammatory arthritis: heel pain in both feet, with other joint or back pain, can be a sign.
Heel Spurs: Not Usually the Problem
Many people are told they have a heel spur on X-ray. A spur is a small bony point on the heel bone. It is common in people with no pain at all, and many people with heel pain do not have one. The pain almost always comes from the soft tissue, which is why treatment focuses on stretching and support, not on the spur.
How It Is Diagnosed
Dr. Gadkari asks exactly where and when the heel hurts, examines the foot and ankle, checks your calf flexibility and the way you walk, and looks at your footwear. An X-ray, ultrasound or MRI scan is used only when the cause is unclear or the pain is not improving.
Treatment Options
Heel pain can take several months to settle, but most people improve without surgery. Treatment builds up step by step.
Step 1 of 6
Stretching Every Day
Calf and plantar fascia stretches, especially before the first steps in the morning, are the single most helpful treatment.
Step 2 of 6
Footwear and Insoles
Cushioned shoes with a slight heel, avoiding flat slippers and walking barefoot on hard floors. Heel cups or insoles can help.
Step 3 of 6
Load and Weight
Reducing long periods of standing and walking where possible, and gradual weight loss if needed.
Step 4 of 6
Physiotherapy
Strengthening exercises for the foot and calf, and taping or a night splint for stubborn plantar fasciitis.
Step 5 of 6
Injections or Other Treatments
For pain that has not improved after several months, an injection or other treatment may be considered.
Step 6 of 6
Surgery
Rarely needed, and only for persistent pain that has not responded to many months of good treatment.
Dr. Gadkari’s aim is to find the real cause of your heel pain and give you a clear, practical plan you can follow at home. He will tell you honestly what to expect, and when it is worth considering further treatment.
Understand Your Diagnosis
He goes through your X-rays and scans with you, so you know exactly what is wrong and why.
Try Non-Surgical Care
Medicines, physiotherapy, weight and activity changes come first, for as long as they help.
Operate When It Helps
Surgery is advised only when it will clearly improve your pain and daily life.
Simple Stretches to Start With
These are general stretches. Ask your doctor or physiotherapist before starting if you have had a recent injury.
Before You Get Up
Sitting on the bed, pull your toes back towards your shin with your hand and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat three times.
Calf Stretch Against a Wall
With the painful leg behind, keep the heel down and lean forward until you feel a stretch in the calf. Hold for 30 seconds.
Rolling the Sole
Roll the arch of your foot over a cold water bottle for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my heel worst with the first steps in the morning?
This is typical of plantar fasciitis. The band of tissue under the foot tightens overnight, so the first steps stretch it painfully. Gentle calf and foot stretches before getting out of bed often help.
Is a heel spur the cause of my heel pain?
Usually not. Many people have a heel spur on X-ray without any pain, and many people with heel pain have no spur. The pain usually comes from the soft tissue under the heel, which is why stretching and footwear changes help.
Will an injection fix my heel pain?
An injection can calm severe heel pain for a while, but it is not the first step and it does not replace stretching, good footwear and time. Dr. Gadkari will discuss whether it is worth it for you.
Why see a foot and ankle specialist?
The foot and ankle have many small bones, joints and tendons that work together with every step. A surgeon with specialist foot and ankle training is used to telling these problems apart and choosing the treatment that keeps the foot working well for walking, work and sport.
Book a Consultation
Talk to Dr. Gadkari about heel pain. Message the clinic on WhatsApp or call, and they will find a time and place that suits you.
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