Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek podiatric care. While it may begin as a mild discomfort, untreated heel pain can progress and interfere with daily activities such as walking, working, and exercising. At New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery, Dr. Asif Shah and Dr. Preston Carr provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for heel pain in Richmond and Farmville, VA, helping patients find relief and return to normal activity.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can develop for several reasons, often related to stress placed on the structures of the foot. The most common cause is plantar fasciitis, a condition involving inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes and supports the arch.
Patients with plantar fasciitis often experience sharp or stabbing pain under the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. As the day continues, the pain may lessen but can return with prolonged standing or activity.
Other causes of heel pain may include tendon irritation, stress injuries, nerve involvement, or biomechanical issues affecting the way weight is distributed across the foot.
Risk Factors for Heel Pain
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing heel pain. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet, including workers in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing, often place repeated stress on the heel. Athletes, especially runners, may develop heel pain from repetitive impact.
Additional risk factors include excess body weight, improper footwear, tight calf muscles, and structural foot conditions such as flat feet or high arches. Without proper support, these factors can place added strain on the heel and surrounding tissues.
When to Seek Professional Care
Early treatment is important to prevent heel pain from becoming a chronic issue. Patients should seek podiatric evaluation if pain persists beyond several days, worsens over time, or begins to interfere with walking and daily function.
Ignoring heel pain can lead to compensatory changes in walking patterns, increasing the risk of further injury to the foot, ankle, or other joints.
Advanced Heel Pain Treatment Options
At New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery, treatment begins with identifying the underlying cause of heel pain. A personalized treatment plan may include rest, targeted stretching, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and reduce strain on the heel.
For more persistent cases, advanced therapies such as anti-inflammatory treatments, bracing, or minimally invasive procedures may be recommended. In rare cases, surgical treatment may be considered when conservative care does not provide relief.
Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence by addressing both symptoms and contributing factors.
Schedule a Heel Pain Evaluation
Heel pain does not have to limit your mobility or quality of life. New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery provides expert heel pain treatment in Richmond and Farmville, VA. Dr. Asif Shah and Dr. Preston Carr work closely with patients to develop effective, personalized care plans.
To schedule an appointment, call New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery in Richmond at (804) 934-9381 or in Farmville at (434) 391-3668. Early care can help you get back on your feet with comfort and confidence.