Our Services / Heel Pain

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is stiffness, aching, or discomfort that affects the bone at the back of your foot. Most people experience heel pain every once in a while, but if your symptoms persist or affect your mobility, it could point to a more serious underlying problem. 

If you have pain behind, beneath, or within your heel itself, and it doesn’t improve with ice, rest, or anti-inflammatory medication, make an appointment with Dr. Sadoughi at Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle.

What causes heel pain?

At Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle, Dr. Sadoughi treats various causes of heel pain, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Bone spurs
• Bursitis
• Stress fractures
• Inflamed tendons
• Bone bruises

Dr. Sadoughi also treats heel pain caused by Sever’s disease, a condition that tends to affect children between the ages of 8-14 years old. 

Who is at risk of experiencing heel pain?

Several factors may increase your risk of heel pain, including:

• Being overweight
• Having an underlying foot problem, like arthritis, flat feet, or high arches
• Playing sports
• Running
• Standing for extended periods on hard surfaces (like concrete)

You’re also more likely to experience heel pain if you don’t wear shoes that provide support for your feet. 

How is heel pain diagnosed?

At Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle, Dr. Sadoughi diagnoses heel pain during an in-office visit.

First, he reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, if it extends to other parts of your body, and if activities like work or exercise, make it worse.

Next, Dr. Sadoughi examines your heels. During the exam, he looks for redness, swelling, or bruising. He also gently presses on your heels to pinpoint areas of sensitivity or pain. 

If these steps don’t provide enough insight to make a diagnosis, Dr. Sadoughi orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These procedures can rule out underlying issues, like fractures, sprains, or ruptured tendons. 

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment of heel pain depends on several factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and the underlying cause. Whenever possible, Dr. Sadoughi recommends conservative and noninvasive options, like:

• Custom orthotics
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Ice
• Stretching exercises
• Physical therapy
• Taping

If your heel pain doesn’t respond to these treatments, surgery might be necessary, but only as a last resort.

To receive complete care for heel pain, make an appointment at Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle by calling the office or booking online today.