Heel Injuries

Heel


Conroe, TX | Spring, TX | The Woodlands, TX


Standing for long periods of time can cause heel pain, but so can heel spurs and fractures. At Woodlands Foot and Ankle Center, our heel specialists understand the structure of feet and heels, and we can learn the source of your pain. Dr. Gregory Vidovic specializes in foot, ankle, and heel issues, and he can tell you if your heel pain is coming from plantar fasciitis or something else. If you experience inflammation and pain after waking up in the morning or spending a long time on your feet, contact us to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve clients throughout Conroe TX; The Woodlands TX; Spring TX; and beyond.


Heel Pain


Heel pain affects everyone from time to time. However, when it persists for longer periods of time--after the uncomfortable shoes have been taken off and the feet have been rested after a busy day of strenuous activity or standing--and does not resolve on its own, it could be a sign of plantar fasciitis. Dr. Vidovic, wants to help you understand this potential source of your pain. 


Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The heel bone and toes are connected by a thick band of connective tissue that stretches across the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. Inflammation of the tissue leads to stabbing pain that is most intense in the morning after waking up, or after long periods of sitting or standing throughout the day. 


While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, the most common causes of the condition include: 

  • Running
  • Being overweight
  • Walking/working out with shoes that do not provide adequate support, especially for people with a high arch, flat feet, or biomechanics issues that cause weight to be distributed unevenly as a person walks and stands


How Does the Plantar Fascia Become Inflamed and Injured? 


The plantar fascia provides shock absorption to the heel and foot. Through increased pressure, repeated stretching, and swear and tear, the tissue can develop small tears that lead to painful swelling and inflammation. In addition to long distance running and obesity, plantar fasciitis can also develop as a result of other factors including: 

  • Increased Age
  • Physical activities like ballet and other sports that involve added stress and pressure on the heels
  • Occupational risks for developing chronic heel pain are higher for professionals who spend long hours and shifts on their feet, such as teachers, nurses, and retail workers
  • Irregular gait, overpronation 


Want to learn more about heel pain & plantar fasciitis treatment 

Call our Woodlands office at (281) 363-2829 to book an appointment 



Heel Pain


Plantar fasciitis is a heel condition characterized by intense heel pain after waking up in the morning or after long periods of physical activity. The band of tissue from heel to toes is inflamed, creating pain that makes it difficult to walk. The cause can be increased physical activity, genetic issues, unsupportive footwear, increased weight, or long periods spent on one’s feet. At Woodlands Foot and Ankle Center, we can determine the cause of your plantar fasciitis and give you information about treatment, which may include stretching, icing, supportive shoes, physical therapy, padding and strapping, and more. 




Heel Spur


Calcium deposits on the heel are called heel spurs. While some heel spurs don’t cause pain, others do and require treatments like orthotics, medication, injections, or surgery. If your heels tend to swell following exercise like running or jumping, you may be suffering from a heel spur. 


Heel Fracture


A hard fall on the foot can cause a heel fracture. Cartilage damage may complicate matters, but Woodlands Foot and Ankle Center can assist with the diagnosis and treatment of your heel facture. Possible treatments include rest, ice, and compression; a cast or boot; or physical therapy. If you feel consistent or growing pain in your foot, ankle or toes, consider having surgery to correct the are of pain. For more question on our facilities, call us today for a consultation.

Call Us Today

Not every issue will require surgery. Our health professionals can find the source of your foot pain and suggest if a surgical or non-surgical option is sufficient. Call us today to schedule an appointment. 

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