Some Modalities For Heel Pain Treatment San Francisco Residents May Use

By Serena Price


Heel pain is synonymous with planter fascitis. This pain characteristically starts in the morning when one wakes up and abates as the day progresses. It is known to cause a significant impairment of functionality. There are several options for heel pain treatment San Francisco residents may explore if they have been diagnosed with the condition. The main objective of these treatment modalities is to relieve the pain and to help restore normal function.

The prevalence of planter fascitis has been shown to be very high among professional athletes. In the course of their activities, the athletes tend to strain the planter fascia. The planter fascia is a sheet of thin muscle that stretches between the heel and the toe. Its function is to provide stability to the foot. When stretched excessively, it undergoes inflammatory changes and this is what causes the extreme pain that is experienced. The wearing of improper shoes is another predisposing factor.

The early stages of the condition are treated mainly by conservative therapies. As the symptoms set in, adequate rest is very helpful. Ensure that you desist from engaging in activities that are likely to aggravate your condition. This allows the planter fascia to heal in the areas that have been affected by inflammatory changes. Concrete surfaces are known to be especially harmful and should be avoided.

Early intervention has been associated with better outcomes than the seeking of treatment when the condition is advanced. In as much as 90% of affected persons, conservative treatments have been shown to be effective. It is common for the different existing modalities to be used in combination so as to improve on the outcomes. Of course such a decision will depend on the severity of the condition.

Drugs belonging to the group of NSAIDS are the most commonly used for relief. Some of the drugs classified under this group include aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. It should be emphasized that these drugs only provide short term relief and the symptoms tend to recur. Drugs belonging to the NSAID group are known to cause some serious side effects such as peptic ulcer disease and should be used sparingly.

Putting on improperly designed shoes or those that are non-fitting is a common predisposing factor. If the shoes are causing discomfort, then they need to be replaced. Ideal shoes are those that have shock absorption and arch support mechanism. To achieve better cushioning, orthotics may have to be added. Cushioning helps to reduce the strain that is exerted to the planter fascia and minimizes injury.

Physical exercise when done on a regular basis plays a major role as well. Affected persons should set aside some time every morning where they can practice some routines such as toe stretching and calf starching. This helps to increase ligament flexibility and foot arch stability.

If they do not show improvement with conservative heel pain treatment San Francisco residents may need to start considering the surgical options available. For any form of treatment chosen, it should be remembered that success rates are widely variable. Some people respond almost immediately while others take a much longer period of time.




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