HEEL PAIN

Heel pain has a number of causes that are typically associated with overuse of the heel bone. You can strain your heel by pounding your feet on hard surfaces, being overweight, or wearing shoes that do not fit properly.

Signs that may lead to the assumption of heel pain are:

• The pain in the heel starts suddenly
• You have redness in your heel
• You have swelling in your heel
• You cannot walk because of the pain in your heel

Home remedies such as rest can be done first before consultation. However, if heel pain does not recede within two to three weeks, it is encouraged to make an appointment with your physician.

There are several methods to ease the discomfort of heel pain, such as:

• Rest as much as possible
• Apply ice to the heel for 10 to 15 minutes twice a day
• Use over-the-counter pain medications
• Wear shoes that fit properly
• Wear a night splint, a special device that stretches the foot while you sleep
• Use heel lifts or shoe inserts to reduce pain