When patients visit the foot doctor, it's frequently due to heel pain, which is a typical runner's condition, but it also arises from other problems like overuse, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. Expert treatment of heel pain is available at the New York Foot Experts: Daniel Drapacz, DPM, where the doctor determines the exact cause of your heel pain and implements treatment that gets you back into action. Saturday, evening, and same-day appointments are available, so book yours online or call one of his offices in New York, conveniently located in Chelsea, Midtown Manhattan, Harlem, the Upper East Side, and the Financial District.
Heel pain can develop from any activity that places extra stress on your heel, even an abnormal gait. A few of the conditions that cause heel pain include:
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that begins at your heel, runs along the bottom of your foot, and connects to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot and protects the sole by absorbing pressure.
Over time, it becomes susceptible to degeneration, can develop small tears, and become inflamed, causing plantar fasciitis -- the most common cause of heel pain. Your pain may be sharp when you put pressure on your heel, especially with the first few steps you take in the morning and after long periods of sitting or standing.
Plantar fasciitis often develops gradually, so by the time you feel pain, you may not be able to pinpoint a cause. These factors increase your risk of developing the condition: (See Ref 2, para 3)
A heel spur, or calcaneal spur, is a buildup of calcium on your heel bone. Heel spurs often develop on the back of your heel where the heel bone connects with the Achilles tendon, or on the underside where the plantar fascia meets the heel.
Dr. Drapacz performs a thorough examination, including imaging tests, if needed, then creates a customized treatment plan that may include one or more of the following:
You may need to take a break from the activities responsible for your heel pain. Dr. Drapacz may recommend stretching exercises, taping the affected foot, wearing a splint, or orthotic inserts to provide cushioning.
Over-the-counter or prescription medications help relieve your pain, but in cases of severe pain, you may need a cortisone injection to reduce inflammation. Dr. Drapacz can perform surgery for a fractured heel, or to repair other problems, if your symptoms don’t improve with conservative treatment.
"I went to see Dr. Drapacz for a corn on my big toe and was treated fast and they made me feel like my condition really mattered."
"I went to see Dr. Drapacz for a corn on my big toe and was treated fast and they made me feel like my condition really mattered."
"The staff is friendly and accommodating. Dr. Fanno is very knowledgable and explained thoroughly my condition, and the treatment plan. Very happy I found this practice."
