The Basics Of Heel Pain Treatment San Francisco Residents May Benefit From

By Serena Price


Heel pain is synonymous with planter fascitis. This pain characteristically starts in the morning when one wakes up and abates as the day progresses. It is known to cause a significant impairment of functionality. There are several options for heel pain treatment San Francisco residents may explore if they have been diagnosed with the condition. The main objective of these treatment modalities is to relieve the pain and to help restore normal function.

Studies have shown that this is very common among athletes. Athletes continuously stretch their planter fascia, a sheet of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes, subjecting it to inflammatory changes. Scarring and fibrous tissue formation causes the occurrence of the pain. Undue strain may also be exerted on the fascia when one puts on improper shoes or walking on a rugged terrain. Obese persons are the other group of people that are at a high risk.

As the symptoms set in, there are a number of things that can be undertaken. Taking of adequate rest is one of the things that should be done as soon as the condition is diagnosed. Take a break from strenuous physical activities that are likely to stretch the planter fascia. This will give time to the inflamed fascia to heal. Walking on concrete surfaces also tends to aggravate the injury and should be avoided.

As many as 9 patients out of 10 that are affected respond to conservative therapies. Most of them actually heal completely within a year. The only condition that has to be fulfilled is adherence to the prescribed therapy. There may or may not be a need to combine several therapies. This is determined by the effectiveness of the individual therapies and the severity of the condition.

Symptomatic relief can be achieved by use of a number of drug types. NSAIDS or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a common choice. Some drugs that are found in this group include naproxen, diclofenac, aspirin and ibuprofen and naproxen. Unfortunately, these drugs only work for short periods of time and the symptoms will keep recurring. Side effects that may occur include peptic ulcer disease and renal failure.

Putting on improperly designed shoes or those that are non-fitting is a common predisposing factor. If the shoes are causing discomfort, then they need to be replaced. Ideal shoes are those that have shock absorption and arch support mechanism. To achieve better cushioning, orthotics may have to be added. Cushioning helps to reduce the strain that is exerted to the planter fascia and minimizes injury.

When done on a regular basis, physical exercise is very helpful. Some of the routines that can be practised include calf and toe stretches and towel stretching. The best time for such routines is early in the morning. The exercises help in increasing ligament flexibility and improve arch support.

If they fail to get relief from conservative heel pain treatment San Francisco patients may consider the available surgical options. It is important to make it clear that there is variability in response rates among different persons. Some people show some good progress in a few weeks while others take a little longer.




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