Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common but debilitating issue that can keep you from work, exercise, and other activities you love. At Babak Kosari, DPM Inc, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Babak Kosari, DPM, FACFAS, provides complete care for heel pain using the latest treatment options. After an exam, he can identify the source of your discomfort and make treatment recommendations. Call the nearest office in the neighborhood of Santa Clarita, California, or the Northridge neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, or book an appointment online today. 

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is any aching feeling that occurs at the very back of your foot, beneath your ankle. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an overuse injury. But it can also occur because of a fracture or bone spur.

If you experience heel pain and it prevents you from routine activities, reach out to Babak Kosari, DPM Inc immediately.

What causes heel pain?

The expert providers at Babak Kosari, DPM Inc diagnose and treat various causes of heel pain, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Strains and sprains
• Fractures
• Achilles tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Arthritis

If your child experiences heel pain, it might be the result of osteochondrosis, a disorder that affects the growth of bones.

When should I get treated for heel pain?

Make an appointment at Babak Kosari, DPM Inc if you experience heel pain and it doesn’t improve within two or three weeks with at-home treatment. If the pain occurs alongside other symptoms like redness, swelling, or difficulty walking, it’s also important to seek proper treatment to prevent complications. 

How is heel pain diagnosed?

To diagnose heel pain, your Babak Kosari, DPM Inc provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, if it’s worse at certain times of day, and if it extends to other parts of your foot.

Next, your provider examines your heel. They check for redness or bruising and gently press on your heel to identify sensitive areas. Then, they use handheld tools to check your reflexes and muscle tone. Last, your provider orders X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to get a closer look at your heel bone and the surrounding soft tissues.

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment of heel pain depends on several factors, including your age and the severity of your symptoms. Babak Kosari, DPM Inc might recommend:

• Wearing comfortable shoes that support your heel
• Custom orthotics
• Stretching your muscles before exercise
• Physical therapy
• Icing your heel
• Eating a healthy diet
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication
• Wearing a night splint

If your heel pain persists or worsens, surgery might be necessary. During heel surgery, your provider releases your plantar fascia, easing tension and heel inflammation.

Learn more about the treatment options for heel pain by making an appointment at Babak Kosari, DPM Inc. Call the nearest office to speak with a caring staff member or book online today.