First steps hurt most
Sharp pain under the heel with the first steps out of bed or after sitting, easing as you walk and returning after activity rather than during it.
Heel pain & plantar fasciitis
Heel pain has several causes, and plantar fasciitis is one of the most common complaints in this office.
The plantar fasciitis pattern
Tender under the heel
A specific tender point on the underside of the heel, where the fascia attaches to the bone.
When it is something else
Pain at the back of the heel usually involves the Achilles tendon. Burning, tingling or numbness suggests an irritated nerve. Each is treated differently.
If this is a medical emergency, call 911.
Treating heel pain
Treatment addresses the irritated fascia and the loads that keep irritating it: calf tightness, foot mechanics, footwear and time on your feet.
Graston Technique
On the plantar fascia and the calf.
Custom foot orthotics
Foot Levelers orthotics, made from a scan taken in the office, when foot mechanics keep overloading the fascia.
Foot, ankle and calf
Adjustment of the foot and ankle, with stretching for the calf and the fascia.
When the tenderness is not where plantar fasciitis sits, or the pain does not respond as expected, Dr. Herner orders an X-ray to rule out a fracture or arthritis, and an MRI when a different problem is suspected.