Treatment for Heel Pain in Memphis, Cordova, and Atoka, TN.
Heel pain is one of the most common foot concerns and can affect your ability to walk, work, and stay active. At Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists, we provide total care of feet and ankles for patients in Memphis, Cordova, and Atoka, TN. Our experienced podiatrists focus on identifying the underlying cause of heel pain and creating a treatment plan that supports long-term relief and mobility.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can develop for a variety of reasons. Repetitive stress, improper footwear, increased activity, or structural foot issues can all place strain on the heel. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, bursitis, and stress injuries.
Pain is often felt with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Some patients notice discomfort that worsens with prolonged standing, walking, or exercise. Identifying the specific cause of heel pain is essential for effective treatment.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. Patients often describe sharp pain at the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps out of bed.
This condition can develop in individuals who spend long hours on their feet, increase activity too quickly, or wear unsupportive shoes. Flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles can also contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
At Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists, we use advanced technology to determine the source of heel pain. Digital X-rays help evaluate bone structure and rule out fractures or heel spurs. Ultrasound imaging allows us to assess soft tissue, including the plantar fascia and surrounding tendons, in real time.
In some cases, vascular testing may be used to evaluate circulation, especially when symptoms involve swelling or delayed healing. This thorough evaluation allows us to create a precise and effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Heel Pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Many patients improve with conservative care, including rest, stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to reduce strain on the heel.
Extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT), also known as shockwave therapy, may be recommended for chronic heel pain or plantar fasciitis that does not respond to initial treatment. This non-invasive therapy helps stimulate healing and improve blood flow to the affected tissue.
Additional treatments may include bracing, anti-inflammatory care, and guided rehabilitation. In more advanced cases, surgical options may be considered to relieve persistent pain.
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care
Providing total care of feet and ankles means addressing both the symptoms and the underlying cause of heel pain. Our podiatrists take a personalized approach, focusing on long-term relief and prevention of recurrence. By combining advanced diagnostics with targeted treatment, we help patients return to daily activity with greater comfort and stability.
Schedule an Appointment
If heel pain is affecting your daily life, early evaluation can help prevent the condition from worsening. Mid-South Foot & Ankle Specialists proudly serves patients in Memphis, Cordova, and Atoka, TN with comprehensive podiatric care.
Call (901) 309-7700 to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward relief from heel pain.
