Your podiatrist in Chicago, IL, also serving Norridge, IL, can help with heel pain.

You can suffer from heel pain for many reasons, and it can disrupt your life. So, how do you know when you should be concerned about your heel pain, and when you should seek out the services of your podiatrist? Dr. Laura Pickard of Norridge Foot Clinic, in Chicago, IL, also serving Norridge, IL, offers a wide range of podiatry services, including treatment for heel pain.

Heel pain can be caused by:

• Stepping on sharp objects, causing a heel bruise
• Excess deposits of calcium, causing a heel spur
• Plantar fasciitis, occurring because the thick band of tissue running across your heel, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed

You may be experiencing plantar fasciitis because:

• You have flat feet
• You carry excess weight
• You run or jog
• You walk or stand on hard surfaces for extended periods
• You overpronate or roll your feet when you walk

If you are suffering mild symptoms of heel pain, you can try a few easy tips like these at home:

• Placing an ice pack on your heel for 15 minutes several times each day
• Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or pain medication
• Resting and elevating your feet to reduce stress on your heels

How do you know when you should be concerned about your heel pain? If you are suffering from moderate to severe heel pain that is not going away or is getting worse, you should see your podiatrist.

Some common professional treatments for heel pain include:

• Physical therapy, to keep you mobile and flexible
• Custom-made orthotics, to support and cushion your heels
• Night splints, to promote proper foot alignment
• Prescription-strength anti-inflammatory medication to decrease swelling and pain

You don't have to suffer from heel pain when relief is just a phone call away. To find out more about when to see your podiatrist for your heel pain treatment, call Dr. Pickard of Norridge Foot Clinic, in Chicago, IL, also serving Norridge, IL, at (773) 625-2211 now!