Are you faced with heel pain each day? Is getting out of bed in the morning unpleasant due to stabbing pain? Pain in the heel is one of the most common complaints heard by podiatrists. Plantar fasciitis is often the cause, and it is believed that over two million people in America are impacted each year.
The band of tissue known as the plantar fascia connect to the heel. Overuse can cause this tissue to be inflamed. Tarsal tunnel, Achilles tendonitis, and other conditions of the foot can cause heel pain. Many people who exercise regularly, or stand for long hours, are impacted.
Stretching exercises along with icing, anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, and shoe pads are just some of the conservative methods used to treat this condition. For many people, performing persistent stretching exercises improves their condition greatly.
What exercises can you do to relieve heel pain? The goal of stretching for this condition is to increase the mobility of the plantar fascia and to make the Achilles’ tendon more flexible. Try standing on a step, toes on and heels off. Now let your heels drop slowly. Feel the stretch in the tendon?
Another great exercise that has been shown to be effective is done while sitting. Cross one leg over the other leg, and use one hand to pull the toes to the shin. Hold for a ten count and for ten reps. Do this three times per day. Performing this stretch before you get out of bed in the morning is a great idea, and may relieve discomfort for your first steps of the day.
How long have you been experiencing heel pain? Don’t let it go on another day! Call Podiatrist Marco Vargas, and make every morning pain free. Schedule online, or call one of our three locations: Houston, TX, Sugar Land, TX, or Missouri City, TX.