Do you suffer from severe heel pain trying to walk each morning? Do you dread that first step each morning? Have you tried everything you can think of to rid yourself of the pain? If you answered YES to any of those questions, then it is probably past time to get help.

Typically, when people describe the above symptoms, they are referring to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The person dealing with this issue often reports pain somewhere in their arch or heel. Often the pain is worse upon initial walking each day, after a period of inactivity, or later in the day after the person has been up and walking throughout the day.

People experiencing this heel pain frequently attempt a variety of home treatments including: rolling their foot on a frozen water bottle, stretching their calves, shoe inserts, and maybe even a night-splint. For some these methods work, but for too many others, the result is not relief. When these self-care options do not work, it is time to see a physical therapist for help.

How can a physical therapist help treat heel pain?

Well, this starts with a detailed analysis of the problem. Understanding foot mobility, strength, and gait mechanics are important. Additionally, further consideration of footwear may be appropriate.

Once key issues to the problem are determined, then an appropriate course of treatment can commence. Treatment may include foot/toe mobility, foot strength and balance work, as well as addressing gait mechanics. By addressing these key areas, the foot will become more tolerant of daily loading. Additional treatment elements may include: dry needling, nerve glides, and ultrasound. When put together as a package, often that heel pain will begin to reduce quickly.

The first reduction in pain tends to happen within a few weeks. The pain becomes manageable and more of a nuisance. The person will be aware of the issue but not limited by it. Over time then that lower-level annoying discomfort will fade away.

In the end, the longer the issue is around before treatment, the longer it tends to remain. So…how long are you willing to live with severe heel/arch pain? If you are ready to be done, then click the following LINK to connect with an expert today.