Diagnosing Heel Pain: Physical Examination, Imaging Studies, and Diagnostic Tests

Heel pain can make walking, standing, and other everyday activities painful and difficult. It is important to diagnose the cause and seek treatment because, left untreated, heel pain could become more severe over time, as well as lead to additional foot problems. Dr. Brandon James and Dr. Sarah James, the board-certified podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX, diagnose and treat heel pain due to various causes.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain, whether at the back of the heel or along the bottom, can develop as a result of many different factors, including overuse, repetitive stress, or an injury. Common causes of heel pain include:

• Arthritis
• Heel spurs
• Sports injuries
• A stress fracture
• An irregular gait
• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Performing high-impact activities
• Structural issues (e.g., flat feet, high arches)
• Wearing shoes without adequate support

Diagnosing Heel Pain

Several different diagnostic tests can be performed to determine the exact cause of heel pain. At our office in New Braunfels, TX, our experienced podiatrists will assess your symptoms and perform a physical examination of the affected foot. If needed, additional diagnostic tests will be conducted, which could include digital X-rays or a diagnostic ultrasound. Once the doctor identifies the cause of your heel pain, a treatment plan tailored to your needs will be developed.

Treatments for Heel Pain

Several options and therapies are available for treating heel pain. The right method depends on a few different factors, such as the type of heel pain (bottom or back of heel), severity, and cause. Treatment could involve special exercises for improving strength or flexibility, wearing more cushioned footwear, or medications, for example. Some of the different treatment options for heel pain include:

• Applying ice
• Custom orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Padding and strapping
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Removable walking cast
• Compression wraps
• Shockwave therapy
• Night splints
• Surgery

If you have been struggling with heel pain, our skilled podiatrists can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brandon James or Dr. Sarah James for the diagnosis and treatment of your heel pain by calling by calling Foot & Ankle Surgery of New Braunfels in New Braunfels, TX, at (830) 387-4427.