The heel bone is the largest of the 26 bones in the human foot. Like all bones, it is subject to outside influences that can affect its integrity and cause heel pain. Symptoms of heel pain may be felt in the front, back, or bottom of the heel. Pain that is felt under the heel is most frequently associated with plantar fasciitis and/or a heel spur. A variety of foot injuries or improper foot mechanics can lead to these conditions. Treatments include icing, stretching exercises, physical therapy, injections, prescription of custom orthotics, rESWT (Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy), and Remy Laser to correct the foot position and help alleviate pain.
Flat Feet
Flat feet (also called pes planus) is a postural deformity in which the entire sole of the foot comes into complete or near-complete contact with the ground. Flat feet can occur during childhood if the arches of the feet don’t develop, after an injury, or from the wear and tear of aging.
Most people have no symptoms associated with flat feet. But some people with flat feet experience foot pain, particularly in the heel or arch area. For painful flat feet, Dr. Luvish offers orthotics, stretching, or a structurally supportive shoe.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of a tendon. Usually caused by vigorous or repeated physical activity, Achilles tendinitis, or an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, is one of the most common causes of foot or ankle pain. Dr. Luvish will work with you to create a treatment plan based on your specific symptoms, the extent of your injury, how long symptoms have affected you, and your long-term athletic or personal goals. Treatment may include resting and icing your foot or ankle, doing physical therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles and tendons. If tendinitis is painful, Dr. Luvish may recommend treatment with rESWT to relieve swelling and pain and promote healing. If tendinitis is severe, surgery may be recommended to repair a tendon or remove inflamed tissue.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is the inflammation or overstretching of the posterior tibial tendon in the foot, which can lead to flattening of the arch. People with flat feet are at a greater risk of developing PTTD. Dr. Luvish can diagnose the condition and treat it with custom orthotics.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is the inflammation around the ball of the foot that causes pain. It is a common overuse injury. The pain is aggravated by walking or running. Dr. Luvish can help with proper shoe gear, orthotics, and metatarsal pads.