Podiatrist Thomas Bembynista, DPM - Overland Park, KS and Kansas City, MO
http://www.kcfootcare.com
What Can I Do At Home About My Heel Pain? - KC Foot Care
Dr. Thomas Bembynista of KC Foot Care discusses the symptoms, causes and treatments for Heel Pain.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
Heel spurs are caused by inflammation at the insertion of the plantar fascia into the heel bone. The condition can be treated successfully using a conservative approach in 98% of the cases. Diagnosis includes a physical exam and possible an x-ray, especially if there is a history of trauma. Heel pain can be reduced by using trigger point injections of a mild steroid from the side of the foot with a cold spray to numb the skin to significantly reduce the pain from the injection. Typically, treatment requires 1 to 3 office visits for evaluation and injections. If nerve pain is present that causes shooting pain at rest, this can be treated with dehydrated alcohol injections to destroy the painful section of the nerve.
As we start treatment it's important to support the arch with an OTC arch support, wrapping the arch with reusable wraps or coban. When treating long term, Custom Orthotics are often the best choice. They are constructed from a flexible plastic material and can made to fit both gym and dress shoes.
If heel pain is intolerable or persists after conservative treatment, new treatments are available—PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections or Shockwave Therapy. Surgery today is rare but, if necessary after all treatments, it is usually successful.
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