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401 S. Alabama St. Suite 10/11

Butte, MT 59701 US

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What the Source of Your Heel Pain Could Be

If you have a sore or aching heel, find out the source and get relief. At Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute, Dr. Dallin Greene and Dr. Nathan Judd provide excellent diagnostic analysis and treatment of heel pain no matter the cause.

It could be many things...

The 26 bones and 33 joints in our feet take a lot of stress. Standing, running, jumping, injuries, and age--they change how our feet look, feel, and perform. In their Bozeman and Butte offices, your foot doctors at Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute hear many people complain of how sore their heels are. Heel pain may stem from:

  • Bone spurs, small calcified projections on the underside of the calcaneus, or heel bone
  • Very flat or very high arches
  • Obesity
  • Overuse from sports or other activities
  • Arthritis
  • Achilles tendinitis, inflammation of the large band of connective tissue running between the heel and the calf muscle
  • A deep bruise from stepping on a stone
  • Plantar fasciitis, an overstretching of the band of connective tissue between the calcaneus and the base of the toes

The most likely problem is plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, states the American Podiatric Medical Association. How does it develop, and why does it become chronic? Usually, plantar fasciitis results from overactivity--too much and too aggressive running, jumping, dancing and so on. People notice pain upon rising, but it may increase or decrease as the day goes on.

In addition, plantar fasciitis develops if:

  • You overpronate your feet (roll toward the midline as you walk or run)
  • You are overweight
  • Shoes offer little to no support in the arches
  • Your arches are very high or very flat

What to do about heel pain

Come to Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute in Bozeman or Butte where your foot doctor will do a complete podiatric examination, including digital X-rays and gait analysis as needed. He will review your symptoms and your medical history, arriving at a treatment plan to relieve your pain and increase your foot function.

To manage plantar fasciitis, Dr. Judd or Dr. Greene may recommend:

  • More supportive footwear, particularly in the arches
  • Custom-made shoe orthotics (inserts) to correct gait issues
  • Ibuprofen to reduce inflammation
  • Stretching exercises
  • Splints (worn at night)

In cases of persistent heel pain, surgery may be needed. Many people respond well to more conservative interventions.

Contact us

Feel like your self again, and keep moving. Come to Big Sky Foot and Ankle Institute for an evaluation of your heel pain from your foot doctor. You'll love the personalized treatment you receive from Dr. Judd and Dr. Greene. We have offices in Butte and Bozeman, MT. Call (406) 782-2278 for an appointment.