Getting Help With Foot Troubles

4 Ways To Handle Heel Pain

28 November 2015

Ashley Stewart

Heel pain is a common foot problem that can easily become a much larger issue if it is not properly treated. Treating the heel pain often involves simply taking better care of your feet and allowing them time to recover. To help you get back on your feet, here are some ways to alleviate heel pain.

Rest Your Feet

One of the most important steps you can take towards healing heel pain is to rest your feet. Additional stress on your feet can exacerbate the situation and lead to even more pain. Ideally, you should rest your feet as much as possible. 

During the resting period, avoid strenuous activities, such as running and jogging. The repetitive nature of both exercises can worsen your condition. If you must exercise, opt for exercises that do not place pressure on your feet, such as swimming and biking. 

Ice Your Feet

A common cause of heel pain is inflammation. Inflammation and swelling are best treated with ice therapy. Place an ice pack on the back of your heel a few times a day to help reduce inflammation. 

Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken also to help with inflammation and pain. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are anti-inflammatories that are generally considered safe to use. 

Do Stretch Exercises

Stretch exercises help to alleviate pain and increase flexibility in your feet. They can also help with improving balance, which is key to keeping heel pain at bay. 

There are a number of exercises that are safe to do, including towel stretches. A towel stretch is done by looping a towel around your foot and then pulling your foot towards your body. While pulling your foot, try to keep your knee straight. 

Select the Right Footwear

If your heel pain persists, consider switching your footwear. Footwear that does not adequately support your heel can not only discourage recovery, but also cause your pain to worsen. When shopping for new shoes, look for those that offer stability to help avoid injuries. Test the shoes out before purchase to ensure your feet are adequately supported. 

In addition to switching shoes, talk to your podiatrist about custom-made orthotics. Shoe inserts can help to raise your heels and offer the support your arches need.

Consult a podiatrist such as Dr. Maurice Levy about other steps you can take to alleviate heel pain. He or she can also assess your condition to determine if there is an underlying issue that should be addressed. 

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