Why Good Podiatrists Are the Heroes of Heel Pain – #PodsHealHeels

Do you ever feel like your heels are staging a revolt against your every step? That stabbing pain with every morning shuffle out of bed? You might just be experiencing the notorious heel pain. But fret not, for in the world of foot afflictions, there shines a beacon of hope: the Podiatrist. Not only will they carry out in depth assessments to confirm if plantar fasciitis is the specific diagnosis for your heel pain (there are over 40 other possible diagnoses!), they will develop an effective & efficient individualised treatment plan for you to help you enjoy all your activities again.

So let’s delve into why these foot wizards are the ultimate healers when it comes to kicking plantar fasciitis to the curb.

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: why Podiatrists? Well, think of them as the Sherlock Holmes of the foot world. They specialise in everything from diagnosing mysterious foot ailments to crafting customised treatment plans. While other healthcare professionals might offer general advice, good Podiatrists dive deep into the intricacies of your foot, including its mechanics, uncovering the root cause of your heel woes and other possible problems affecting them.

Picture this: you’ve been bouncing from one home remedy to another, or from one healthcare professional to another, trying to find relief for your stubborn heel pain. Your GP suggests rest, painkillers, and exercises, but alas, the agony persists. Next stop, possibly seeing a Physiotherapist. Think of these as generalists in treating musculoskeletal problems, rather than true foot specialists. So they can help with exercises just like good Podiatrists can, but do Physios resolve your plantar fasciitis fully and help ensure it does not return? Finally, you may be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon, who talks about invasive procedures that make your toes curl in terror. But fear not, dear reader, for the Podiatrist enters the scene like a caped crusader, armed with a plethora of non-surgical interventions.

One of the Podiatrist’s secret weapons? Orthotics. These nifty little inserts are like personalised cushions for your feet, providing support and offloading exactly where you need it most. Say goodbye to those flimsy pharmacy or online insoles which are non-specific and sometimes can offer as much comfort as a pebble in your shoe. Good Podiatrists choose orthotic prescriptions to fit your unique foot shape, ensuring maximum comfort and support.

But wait, there’s more! Ever heard of extracorporeal shockwave therapy or laser therapy? They may sound like something out of a sci-fi flick, but they are actually cutting-edge treatments for plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists harness the power of laser or shockwaves to stimulate healing in the affected tissue, effectively zapping away your heel pain. It’s like a spa day for your feet, minus the cucumber slices.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: steroid injections. While many other healthcare professionals might jump straight to the needle, good Podiatrists understand the research evidence that shows steroid injections are not the best treatment for long-term resolution. Many Podiatrists are like the Gandalf of foot care, always advocating for the least invasive path to healing. And if injections or surgery does become necessary (although it very rarely does), you can trust your Podiatrist for guidance in the right direction.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to choose a Podiatrist for your heel pain woes? They’re foot enthusiasts through and through. While other healthcare professionals might treat your feet as an afterthought, good Podiatrists are foot aficionados, dedicating their entire careers to studying the intricacies of the human foot. So rest assured, when you entrust your heels to a Podiatrist, you’re placing them in the hands of someone who truly understands and appreciates the complexity of foot mechanics and the plethora of conditions that can affect feet.

In conclusion, when it comes to battling heel pain, Podiatrists reign supreme. With their expertise, personalised care, and arsenal of non-surgical interventions, they’re the ultimate champions in the fight against plantar fasciitis. So lace up your shoes and take that first step towards pain-free living—your feet will thank you!

So just remember #PodsHealHeels. If you would like to see if anything can be done to help you with any foot pain (whether from your heels or something else), call us on 01926 811272 or book online at www.healthfirstsoutham.co.uk/book-appointment

Jonathan Small, Lead Podiatrist, Health First Foot & Gait Clinic, Southam, Warwickshire, 01926 811272