Tips for Preventing Heel Pain: Daily Habits for Healthy Feet

At Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut, Dr. Joseph Treadwell and Dr. Christian Davis are the expert podiatrists to turn to when you are experiencing heel pain in Danbury and Plainville, CT. Read our tips for preventing heel pain and contact us today to get treated.

Why Does My Heel Hurt?

Heel pain (plantar fasciitis) occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue that runs along the base of your foot, becomes inflamed. If you notice the pain in your foot is worse when you first get up, but subsides as your foot stretches out, your heel pain is likely due to the plantar fascia.

Plantar fasciitis pain is common in people with flat feet, runners, very active athletes, and patients who work long days on their feet. However, anyone can experience heel pain. We see many patients who start to accept heel pain as a part of their day, but there are some habits you can adopt to help prevent heel pain from slowing you down.

How Can I Prevent Heel Pain?

To take the best care of your feet and prevent heel pain:

• Invest in comfortable, supportive footwear to wear as often as you can.
• Custom orthotics worn in the shoes are a common prescription for heel pain. Along with providing extra support and cushion for the heel, orthotics can help correct a gait pattern (like overpronation) that is contributing to heel pain.
• Night splints stretch out the foot as you sleep to prevent pain when you get up in the morning.
• Review exercises with your podiatrist to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your feet. Physical therapy exercises can reduce your pain and improve your balance.
• Maintaining a healthy weight with diet and exercise will benefit your overall health, and put less stress on your feet

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help manage your pain when it flares up, but see your podiatrist for help if your heel pain persists.

Stop Limping Today

Dr. Joseph Treadwell and Dr. Christian Davis are here for you when you are struggling with heel pain in Danbury or Plainville, CT. Instead of limping around, contact Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut in Plainville, CT, at (860) 747-2200, and in Danbury, CT, at (203) 748-2220. We have offices in Plainville, and Danbury CT and serving the New Britain, Bristol, Southington, Farmington, New Fairfield and Ridgefield, CT, areas.