Three Signs You Need to See a Podiatrist
- posted: Nov. 20, 2014
There are twenty-six bones in the human foot, and the heel bone is the largest. It’s no surprise, then, that foot pain usually affects the heel in one way or another. Although any kind of pain in the foot should be reported to your podiatrist, the following conditions can be particularly difficult.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that build up on the underside of the heel bone. They’re common among athletes whose sport involves excessive running and jumping, but other factors can also contribute to the development of heel spurs, such as the following:
- Gait abnormalities
- Poorly-fitted shoes
- Obesity
Heel spurs are often painless, but when they become inflamed, they can actually be very painful. People will heel spurs have reported that they can sometimes feel a “pins-and-needles” sensation in the bottom of their feet when they first wake up in the morning. If you’re experiencing this kind of sensation, call your podiatrist.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is shock-absorbing tissue that runs along the bottom of your feet from the toes to the heel. When this tissue becomes torn or inflamed, it can cause a condition called plantar fasciitis.
Much like heel spurs, plantar fasciitis pain usually presents in the morning, during a person’s first steps of the day. The pain can subside throughout the day, but for some, it persists until they head back to bed at night. If you feel tightness or pain in on the underside of your foot, it could be due to plantar fasciitis. Call your podiatrist immediately if you begin to experience this symptom.
Achilles Tendonitis
The infamous Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Inflammation of this tendon is called Achilles tendonitis, and is usually caused by overuse. Tension, aching, and soreness in the tendon, heel, and ankle are the symptoms that accompany Achilles tendonitis—all signs that you should visit the podiatrist.
To learn more about treatment for heel pain in the Boise, ID area, call (208) 327-0627 today!