Oftentimes heel pain is caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis, though it can also be caused by tendonitis, arthritis, nerve 
irritation, stress fracture or sometimes a cyst. A foot doctor in Vineland, NJ, such as Dr. Jeffrey Belancio can examine each patient to determine the cause of their particular heel pain.
More about Plantar Fasciitis
Because there are many causes of this condition, it is important to be properly diagnosed. This condition is inflammation within the band of tissue known as the plantar fascia that extends from the heel to the toes. At first, the fascia becomes irritated and then inflamed, which leads to pain. The most common cause for this condition is a faulty structure in the foot. People with flat feet or high-arched feet or problems with their arches at all are more susceptible to developing this. Also, wearing non-supportive footwear puts strain here and can lead to this condition.
Your foot doctor in Vineland can examine you and review your symptoms to diagnose your properly. Some common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Pain that is worse when standing up
- Pain on the bottom of the heel
- Pain that increases over time
Plantar fasciitis patients describe their pain as worsening when they get up in the morning and after sitting for a period of time. Pain decreases after a few minutes of walking as this stretches the fascia successfully. X-rays are used to diagnose the condition.
Non-surgical treatment of plantar fasciitis varies and may include:
- Stretching
- Custom Orthotics
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Injection therapy
- Removable walking cast
- Night splint
- Physical therapy
Unfortunately for some patients, surgery is required. This is after the patient hasn’t responded well to non-surgical treatment. To schedule an appointment with our foot doctor in Vineland, NJ, Dr. Belancio, call (856) 839-0579 today.