Help for Heel Pain
The painful heel condition known as plantar fasciitis affects millions of Americans. An inflammation of the main ligament in the foot, its major symptom is severe pain in the bottom of the heel that is worse in the morning.
Unfortunately, shock wave therapy—the latest treatment— appears ineffective. But these self-care measures may help:
- Rest the foot as much as possible.
- Wear a heel cup, cushion, or felt pad in your shoe.
- Ask your doctor about heelstretching and other foot exercises or if over-the-counter pain medication can help.
- Be patient. Experts say that most cases resolve themselves, but it may take a year or more.
March/April 2006 A Healthy Tomorrow
The editorial content of this online publication is taken from the print version of A Healthy Tomorrow published by Loma Linda University Medical Center.