What causes heel pain?

Heel pain can be caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon disorders, heel spurs, bursitis, stress fractures, nerve irritation, or biomechanical misalignment.

What are common symptoms of heel pain?

Common symptoms include sharp or aching pain in the heel area, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged rest, swelling or tenderness, and difficulty walking.

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotic support, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory measures, injections, or advanced interventions such as surgical correction when indicated.

When should I see a specialist for heel pain?

You should see a foot and ankle specialist if heel pain persists despite conservative care for several weeks, interferes with daily activities, or if there is significant swelling or inability to bear weight.

Heel Pain Treatment Miami, FL

Heel Pain

The heel is supported by the calcaneus (heel bone) and a network of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues that work together to absorb force and support the body during walking, running, and standing. Heel pain is a common condition that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life.

Understanding the underlying cause is essential to provide effective treatment and prevent recurrence.

Causes

Heel pain can arise from a variety of structural, biomechanical, and medical factors. Common causes include:

Plantar fasciitis: inflammation of the ligament connecting the heel bone to the toes
Bursitis: swelling of a fluid-filled sac (bursa) at the back of the heel
Achilles tendinitis: inflammation of the Achilles tendon connecting the calf to the heel
Heel spurs: abnormal bone growth on the bottom or back of the heel
Calcaneus fracture: a break in the heel bone due to trauma
Haglund's deformity: enlargement of the back of the heel
Tarsal tunnel syndrome: compression of nerves at the inner ankle
Rheumatoid arthritis: autoimmune inflammation affecting the heel joint

Symptoms

Heel pain may be felt:

Underneath the heel or at the back of the heel
As sharp, stabbing pain when first standing in the morning or after prolonged sitting
During walking, jogging, or running
With associated swelling, inflammation, numbness, or tingling

Diagnosis

Dr. Alejandro Pino diagnoses heel pain through a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination. He evaluates the heel for tenderness, swelling, alignment, and gait abnormalities. Additional diagnostic tools may include:

X-rays, CT scans, or MRI for detailed bone and soft tissue imaging
Blood tests if systemic or inflammatory causes are suspected

Accurate diagnosis is essential to guide the most effective treatment and prevent long-term complications.

Treatment

Treatment is individualized and depends on the underlying cause of heel pain. Dr. Pino offers a spectrum of options, including:

Conservative Therapies:

Activity modification and rest from activities that stress the heel
Ice application to reduce inflammation
Targeted exercises, stretching, and foot massage
Orthotics, heel cups, night splints, or professional shoe inserts
Anti-inflammatory medications (topical or oral)
Corticosteroid injections when appropriate
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic plantar fasciitis or nerve- related pain

Surgical Treatment:

In cases where conservative care is insufficient, surgery may be recommended for:

Persistent heel spurs
Chronic bursitis
Achilles tendon repair
Calcaneus fractures or structural deformities

Surgical planning is tailored to the patient's specific anatomy and condition to restore function and reduce pain while minimizing recovery time.

Prevention

Patients can reduce the risk of heel pain with:

Properly fitted shoes and supportive footwear
Weight management to reduce stress on the heel
Use of custom orthotics or shoe inserts for biomechanical support
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and calf

Why Choose Alejandro Pino, MD for Heel Pain Treatment?

Dr. Alejandro Pino is a fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon who combines advanced diagnostic techniques with individualized treatment strategies for heel pain. He emphasizes understanding the root cause of each patient's symptoms, rather than simply addressing pain.

Patients choose Dr. Pino because he:

Offers comprehensive care for both conservative and surgical treatment of heel pain
Uses advanced minimally invasive procedures, including ESWT and targeted surgery, when indicated
Tailors treatment plans to each patient's anatomy, lifestyle, and activity level
Focuses on restoring long-term function and mobility
Communicates clearly about diagnosis, treatment options, and recovery expectations

Dr. Pino's goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and help patients return to their daily activities and active lifestyles safely and effectively.