Dealing with Heel Pain in New York City

Dr. Sorelis Jimenez Podiatrist (Foot and Ankle Specialist) New York, NY

Dr. Sorelis Jimenez is a podiatrist practicing in New York, NY. Dr. Jimenez is a medical doctor specializing in the treatment of the foot , ankle and related parts of the leg. As a podiatrist, Dr. Jimenez diagnoses and treats conditions of the feet. The feet are key body parts that give a person stability, absorb shock,... more

If you live in New York City (or anywhere else in the world) and have ever suffered from plantar fasciitis, you know the pain that develops from this condition. You get up from bed and can't bare to rest your heel on the ground. You live in a city where the demands of walking can't afford you to rest your feet. The heel bone and toes are connected by a tick band of connective tissue stretching 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. Suppose you're dealing with heel pain that's uncomfortable even after taking off your shoes, resting after a busy day of strenuous activity, or standing and doesn't resolve on its own. In that case, it could be a sign of plantar fasciitis.

There are many causes of developing plantar fasciitis; the most common causes of the condition include: running, being overweight, wearing the wrong type of shoe, walking/working out with shoes that do not provide adequate support, especially people with a high arch, flat feet, or biomechanical issues that cause weight to be distributed unevenly as a person walking and stands.

The plantar fascia primarily provides shock absorption to the heel and foot. The tissue can develop small tears that lead to painful swelling and inflammation through increased pressure, repeated stretching, and wear and tear. In addition to long-distance running and obesity, plantar fasciitis can also develop as a result of other factors, including increased age, physical activities or 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 (the way you walk), or overpronation.

Treatment options vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity and how long you've been living with the pain. We recommend you contact our office to discuss your treatment options and get back on your daily activities.