Burning heel pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. It often strikes without warning, making each step a challenge. If you’ve been wondering how to treat burning heel pain, you’re not alone.
This common issue can affect anyone, but understanding what causes burning heel pain, properly managing it, and knowing where to go if you experience burning heel pain in New Jersey can make all the difference.
If you’re experiencing burning heel pain right now, feel free to call 973-777-5771 or visit Haro Podiatry Center in Clifton, New Jersey to seek help from a podiatrist.
What Causes Burning Heel Pain?
Before talking about how to treat burning heel pain, let’s understand what causes burning heel pain. Several factors can contribute to this condition, ranging from simple footwear issues to more complex medical conditions.
Nerve Damage
Burning heel pain is often a sign of nerve damage. This can occur due to various conditions, including diabetic neuropathy, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or physical trauma. Nerve damage typically presents as a burning or tingling sensation and may worsen at night.
Achilles Tendonitis
This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. Overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity can cause Achilles tendonitis, leading to pain and sometimes a burning sensation in the heel.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone. They can cause pain when they press on the surrounding tissues. While they are often associated with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs can also cause a burning sensation in the heel.
Ill-Fitting Footwear
Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly or provide adequate support can lead to burning heel pain. High heels, flat shoes with little arch support, or tight shoes can all contribute to this condition.
Excessive Physical Activity
Engaging in high-impact activities, such as running or jumping, can put stress on your heels. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and burning pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
This is one of the most common causes of heel pain, though it’s not typically associated with a burning sensation. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may experience sharp pain when you first step out of bed in the morning.
How to Treat Burning Heel Pain at Home
If you're experiencing burning heel pain, there are several steps you can take at home to alleviate the discomfort. These self-care measures can help manage the pain and prevent it from worsening.
Rest and Ice
Rest your foot. Avoid activities that put stress on your heel, such as running or standing for long periods. Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
Footwear Adjustments
Evaluate your footwear. Make sure your shoes provide proper arch support and cushioning. Avoid high heels or shoes with thin soles. If your shoes are old and worn out, consider replacing them. Custom orthotics or shoe inserts can also provide additional support and help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot.
Pain Relief
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage the pain. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
Foot Massage
Massaging the affected area can help improve blood flow and reduce tension. Use your hands or a tennis ball to gently massage the arch of your foot and the heel. This can help alleviate pain and improve flexibility.
When to Seek Professional Care
While home remedies can be effective for mild cases of burning heel pain, there are times when professional care is necessary. If your pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a podiatrist in New Jersey at once.
Diabetic Neuropathy
If you have diabetes and are experiencing burning heel pain, it may be due to diabetic neuropathy. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels cause nerve damage, often in the feet. Symptoms may include burning, tingling, or numbness in the feet. Seek medical attention to manage this condition and prevent further complications.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of your ankle, becomes compressed. This can cause burning pain in the heel, as well as numbness and tingling. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition and recommend treatments, such as physical therapy, orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Plantar Fasciitis
If your burning heel pain is due to plantar fasciitis and home remedies aren’t providing relief, professional treatment may be needed. A podiatrist can recommend treatments such as corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or custom orthotics. In severe cases, surgery may be required to release the tension in the plantar fascia.
Achilles Tendonitis
For Achilles tendonitis, professional care may involve physical therapy to strengthen the calf muscles and reduce tension in the Achilles tendon. A podiatrist in New Jersey may also recommend orthotics or a heel lift to reduce strain on the tendon.
Need for Custom Orthotics
If improper footwear is contributing to your burning heel pain, custom foot orthotics may be the solution. These inserts are designed to fit your feet perfectly and provide the support and cushioning needed to alleviate pain. A podiatrist can create custom orthotics tailored to your specific needs.
Where to Treat Burning Heel Pain in New Jersey
When it comes to how to treat burning heel pain in New Jersey, Haro Podiatry Center offers comprehensive care tailored to your needs. We use state-of-the-art technologies to diagnose the root cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan. We are located at 1005 Clifton Ave, Clifton, NJ 07013.
Comprehensive Foot Care
We treat a wide range of foot conditions, including diabetic feet, toenail fungus, heel pain, and many more. Our goal is to provide fast, effective treatments that address the underlying cause of your pain.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient is unique, which is why we create personalized treatment plans that take into account your specific condition, lifestyle, and goals. If you need custom orthotics, physical therapy, or surgical intervention, we’re here to help.
Treat Burning Heel Pain from a Podiatrist in New Jersey
Burning heel pain can disrupt your life, but with the right treatment, you can find relief. Understanding what causes burning heel pain and knowing how to treat burning heel pain at home are the first steps toward recovery. However, if your pain persists, professional care is necessary.
At Haro Podiatry Center in Clifton, New Jersey, we’re committed to providing the highest level of care to our patients. Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or nerve damage, our team is here to help. Contact us today or call 973-777-5771 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward pain-free feet.