Heel Pain Specialist

Neil H Hecht, DPM Our Services Heel Pain

Neil H Hecht, DPM

Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Tarzana, CA

More than 2 million Americans need help with heel pain annually. At his Tarzana, California, practice, experienced and board-certified podiatrist Neil H Hecht, DPM, curates heel pain solutions just for you using his 40-plus years of experience. Use the online appointment scheduler or call the office directly for the best heel pain relief now. Same-day appointments are available, too.

Heel Pain Q & A

What causes heel pain?

There are many reasons for heel pain, including:

  • Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation in the plantar fascia ligament at the bottom of the foot 
  • Arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis and osteoarthritis 
  • Calcaneal fracture: Heel bone fracture
  • Sever’s disease: Growth plate injury in children
  • Achilles tendinitis: Damage to the Achilles tendon in the back of the heel
  • Bone spur: Calcium deposit protrusion on the bottom of the heel
  • Bursitis: Inflammation in the heel-cushioning bursa
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Nerve entrapment in your heel
  • Haglund’s deformity: Heel bump, also called “pump bump”

Less commonly, a cyst could cause heel pain. If you have a chronic systemic illness like diabetes, you could potentially have peripheral vascular disease, which triggers pain in your heel area. 

What are the common symptoms of heel pain?

Plantar fasciitis is the leading reason for heel pain, and it usually brings a very sharp pain sensation. It typically starts when you walk for the first time every day, or whenever you walk after a long rest. 

Sometimes, heel pain is duller but quite consistent. Some heel pain sufferers also experience a hot or burning feeling. 

The exact location of the heel pain can vary from the very bottom of your foot at the back of the heel to the upper back of your heel bone. In some cases, heel pain may veer toward the middle of your foot as well.

Depending on how severe your heel pain is, it might actually interfere with your activities each day. If you lose out on any of your regular activities due to heel pain, or if you can’t walk without suffering, reach out to Dr. Hecht for care right away.

What does heel pain treatment involve?

Dr. Hecht prescribes treatments that alleviate pain and ease any accompanying symptoms. Some effective options can include:

  • Custom orthotics to correct structural defects and relieve pressure
  • Physical therapy 
  • Night brace or another immobilization device
  • Anti-inflammatory medication to diminish inflammation
  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation

If you have treatment-resistant heel pain, Dr. Hecht may recommend a surgical procedure. For example, plantar fascia release involves clipping a portion of the ligament that is causing your pain, which eases tension and reduces inflammation. 

For heel pain, the advice and support of an expert are essential. You can rely upon Neil H Hecht, DPM, for the best in podiatric care. Call the office or schedule your appointment online now. 

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