Heel pain can make it hard to get through your day. John F. Kane, DPM, is a podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon who is part of the specialist team at Chicago Surgical Clinic in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Dr. Kane is well-known for his skill at accurately diagnosing the reason for your heel pain and providing treatment that addresses the underlying condition. His goal is to resolve your pain and get you moving again, and is an expert in both work and personal injury. Call Chicago Surgical Clinic today or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.
Many conditions can lead to heel pain, the most common of which is plantar fasciitis. This syndrome occurs when the fibrous band of tissue (plantar fascia) that connects your heel to your toes becomes irritated and inflamed. Plantar fasciitis is often associated with heel spur syndrome, which occurs when calcium deposits (spurs) protrude from the heel bone.
Other causes of heel pain include:
Heel pain often builds over time and may be related to long hours on your feet at work, flat arches, or wearing shoes that lack support. Injuries sustained during an accident at work or home can also cause persistent heel pain.
Dr. Kane starts with a detailed discussion of your symptoms. Often, the type of pain you are experiencing helps identify the issue causing it. Plantar fasciitis, for instance, generally causes a stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel and discomfort in the arch of your foot. It is often worse in the morning when you first get up or after you’ve been sitting for a while and then put weight on your foot as you stand.
During your appointment, you can also expect a thorough physical exam of your ankle and foot, often followed by X-rays and other imaging studies to accurately diagnose the source of your discomfort. Dr. Kane then develops a treatment plan that is customized for your situation and condition.
Treatment for heel pain depends on the condition(s) causing your discomfort and often includes conservative therapies, such as:
Dr. Kane might also recommend:
You don’t have to live with heel pain. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Kane at Chicago Surgical Clinic by calling the office or using the online booking feature.
