Dallas Podiatrist Dr. Lisa Brandy Provides Effective Therapies for Heel Pain
Heel pain is a common issue that is frequently misdiagnosed, resulting in ineffective treatments. At Trinity Foot Center in Dallas, Dr. Lisa Brandy provides expert care designed to identify and address the root cause of your heel pain. With a range of specialized treatments, Dr. Brandy aims to relieve your discomfort and restore your mobility. Discover how her comprehensive approach can offer lasting relief.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
At Trinity Foot Center, we address a wide range of conditions that can lead to heel pain, including:
- Plantar fasciitis. One of the most common causes of heel pain is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous ligament that extends from the heel bone to the toes. This condition typically causes a sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel. It is often most intense with the first steps in the morning.
- Heel spurs. These are bony growths or calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone due to prolonged stress on the foot’s ligaments. Heel spurs can cause a range of pain, from sharp and stabbing to dull and throbbing, often exacerbated by standing or walking for extended periods.
- Achilles tendonitis. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the back of the heel. Inflammation of this tendon, commonly due to overuse, results in pain and tenderness along the back of the leg and above the heel. Symptoms may also include swelling and stiffness, particularly after periods of rest.
- Haglund’s deformity. Commonly known as a “pump bump,” this condition features an enlargement at the back of the heel bone where the Achilles tendon attaches. Often linked with bursitis, it can be worsened by wearing high heels.
- Bone bruises. Caused by direct trauma to the heel, bone bruises result in inflammation of the heel tissues, leading to pain and tenderness. This type of injury can be particularly painful even when at rest and may require significant time to heal.
- Stress fractures. Small hairline cracks in the heel bone can cause localized pain that may be felt along the bottom, sides, and back of the heel. Stress fractures often develop from repetitive stress or overuse and can cause considerable discomfort during physical activities.
- Sever’s disease. This condition is common among active children aged 8 to 15, especially those involved in sports or activities with frequent running and jumping. Sever’s disease is an irritation of the growth plates at the back of the heel and can lead to pain and discomfort that may affect a child’s ability to participate in physical activities.
Diagnosing Heel Pain
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of heel pain. At Trinity Foot Center, our comprehensive diagnostic approach includes:
- Advanced diagnostic ultrasound. We use ultrasound technology to visualize the heel’s internal structures. This allows us to precisely identify the root cause of the pain, such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and other abnormalities.
- Physical examination. A comprehensive foot exam helps us assess the location, type, and intensity of your pain. We may evaluate your gait, foot mechanics, and the impact of footwear on your condition.
- Patient history. Understanding your medical history, lifestyle, and any recent activities or injuries helps us pinpoint the underlying cause of your heel pain and tailor our treatment approach accordingly.
Types of Heel Pain Treatments
Effective treatment for heel pain involves a multi-faceted approach tailored to the specific condition and needs of the patient. At Trinity Foot Center, Dr. Lisa Brandy offers a range of treatments at our Dallas office, including:
- Multiwave Locked System (MLS) laser therapy. MLS laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses advanced laser technology to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote healing. It targets the affected tissues with precise light energy, enhancing circulation and accelerating the body’s natural repair processes.
- Custom orthotics. Personalized orthotic devices are designed to support and correct foot alignment, providing relief from various heel pain conditions. Custom orthotics are crafted based on your unique foot structure and gait patterns, ensuring optimal support and comfort.
- Immobilization. Depending on the underlying cause of your heel pain, we may recommend using a soft cast or walking boot. This approach helps immobilize the affected area, reducing movement and pressure to aid in recovery.
In addition, Dr. Brandy may recommend complementary at-home treatments that can aid in managing heel pain and improving recovery. These include:
- Stretching exercises. Gentle stretching of the calf muscles and plantar fascia can help relieve tension and reduce pain.
- Ice therapy. Applying ice to the affected area can reduce inflammation and numb pain.
- Proper footwear. Wearing supportive and cushioned shoes can alleviate pressure on the heels and prevent exacerbation of pain.
- Over-the-counter pain relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation as advised by your health care provider.