Home Remedies for Chronic Heel Pain

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This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor.

Chronic Heel Pain

Heel pain remains one of the most common foot disorders, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The academy says heel pain falls in two categories: behind or under the heel. Chronic heel pain may take several weeks or months to resolve and often is categorized as a chronic condition if treated improperly or the condition recurs. "Podiatry Today" says patients seek treatment for chronic heel pain when the condition has been present for several weeks to several years. Remedies and treatment for heel pain rarely involve surgery and often are performed at home.

Step 1

Apply ice to the heel twice a day or more as needed. Use a medical ice pack, a bag of ice chips or even a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel. Place a barrier between the icepack and your injured heel. Ice decreases inflammation and numbs the area, decreasing pain.

Step 2

Administer nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or NSAIDS. Take ibuprofen, such as Advil, as needed to decrease pain and inflammation. Understand these medications should be consumed with food or a glass of milk to decrease the risk of internal bleeding or stomach ulcers. Purchase medications over-the-counter or ask your medical professional for a prescription for stronger NSAIDS if pain does not diminish.

Step 3

Wear sensible shoes, such as running shoes, and insert an arch support. Avoid wearing shoes with high heels. Invest in a pair of orthotics for increased support if possible. Podiatry Today advises against walking barefoot or wearing flip flops. Patients suffering from chronic pain behind the heel should wear open back shoes to decrease pressure.

Step 4

Avoid running or heavy activity that causes increased pressure to the heel. Resting the heel at the beginning of treatment is necessary. Swimming and biking are nonweight-bearing cross-training activities the active patient may still participate in while the foot heals and other treatment methods are implemented.

Step 5

Stretch the heel and foot by performing stretching exercises, even after the foot has healed. Stretching the heel prevents the chronic condition from recurring. Work with a physical therapist to learn proper stretching and strengthening activities for your specific chronic injury.

Step 6

Continue all methods of treatment on an ongoing basis to keep the condition from returning. Understand that treating heel pain may take weeks or months and is not immediate. Continue to seek medical aid if needed and discuss treatment methods with your medical professional to monitor your foot's function and health.

Things You'll Need    

·         Ice pack

·         Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications

·         Arch supports

·         Running shoes or other supportive shoes

·         Open back shoes (for those with back-of-heel pain)

References

·         MedlinePlus: Heel Injuries and Disorders

·         Podiatry Today: A Stepwise Approach To Treating Chronic Heel Pain

·         American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Heel Pain

·         Mayo Clinic: Heel Pain

    

Article reviewed by OmahaTyppo Last updated on: Sep 8, 2010

Source: Home Remedies for Chronic Heel Pain