Heel Pain Treatment in Kalamazoo, MI

Lasting Relief for One of the Most Common Foot Complaints

Heel pain is one of the most frequent reasons people visit a podiatrist—and when left untreated, it can interfere with everything from morning walks to full workdays. Whether the pain started gradually or came on suddenly, getting an expert diagnosis is key to effective treatment and long-term relief.

At Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, we specialize in identifying the cause of your heel pain and offering a range of non-surgical and surgical solutions. Our goal is to help you get back on your feet—pain-free and confident.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can develop from overuse, biomechanical imbalances, or injury. You may be at risk if you:

• Spend long hours standing or walking on hard surfaces
• Wear unsupportive footwear or worn-out shoes
• Have flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns
• Engage in repetitive impact activities like running or jumping
• Are overweight, increasing pressure on the heel

Symptoms of Heel Pain

Patients with heel pain often report:

• Sharp or stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning
• Aching or throbbing pain after periods of rest or activity
• Swelling, redness, or warmth around the heel
• Pain that worsens after long periods of standing or exercise
• Tenderness when pressing on the bottom or back of the heel

Pain may start mild and progress over time if not properly treated.

Diagnosis

During your visit to Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, we will:

• Ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and activity level
• Perform a hands-on physical exam of your foot and ankle
• Assess your walking mechanics and foot structure
• Order imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound if needed

A proper diagnosis ensures we treat the underlying cause—not just the symptom.

Potential Diagnoses for Heel Pain

Heel pain can be caused by several different conditions. Common diagnoses include:

• Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing pain under the heel
• Heel Spurs – Bony growths at the base of the heel, often associated with plantar fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendon at the back of the heel
• Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel
• Fat Pad Atrophy – Loss of cushioning under the heel, common with aging
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome – Nerve compression near the heel and ankle
• Stress Fractures – Tiny cracks in the heel bone caused by repetitive stress
• Sever’s Disease – A growth plate condition causing heel pain in children and adolescents

Treatment Options for Heel Pain

Your treatment plan will depend on your diagnosis and severity of symptoms. Most cases resolve with conservative care, especially when addressed early.

Nonsurgical Treatments

We commonly recommend:

• Stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and calf
• Icing and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
• Custom orthotics to support the arch and reduce heel pressure
• Supportive footwear with shock-absorbing soles
• Night splints to gently stretch the plantar fascia
• Physical therapy to improve foot mechanics and mobility
• Regenerative medicine options, such as amniotic fluid or PRP injections
• Activity modification and short-term immobilization if needed

Surgical Options

If heel pain persists despite conservative care, surgical treatment may be considered. Procedures may include:

• Plantar fascia release
• Heel spur removal
• Achilles tendon repair
• Nerve decompression
• Endoscopic or minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery

Surgery is typically reserved for cases lasting 6 months or more that have not responded to other treatments.