THE STORY ON HEEL AND NERVE PAIN

Heel pain is perhaps the most common complaint regarding the human foot. Usually heel pain is due to inflammation of the "plantar fascia" (the tough band of tissue that makes up the arch). The problem starts when this tissue band is pulled aways from its connection to the heel bone. This irritated area is where a "heel spur" can grow. Because of the bone is injured, the body tries to cure the problem by growing new bone. This doesn't help, nor does it make the inflamed arch tissue feel better.

Human nerves are like telephone wires-the carry information to and from different parts of the body. There are 26 bones in each foot which must move together when we stand or walk. The many foot nerves can easily get damaged if these bone movements aren't exactly perfect. "Pinched" nerves result when two bones abnormally compress nerve tissue causing the nerve to swell and hurt. Tingling, numbness, muscle cramping, and shooting pain may also occur.

Typically, heel and nerve pain are treated first by relieving the inflammation (injections, oral medication, physical therapy, or surgery) and then by controlling the abnormal foot bone movements which first created the damage. Specialized orthotic arch supports are customized to fit in most types of shoes. These control foot bone motions.

Ask Dr.Hecht about any pain in your foot and ankle.

Author

Neil H Hecht DPM Board-certified podiatrist Neil H Hecht, DPM, has been practicing podiatric medicine and surgery in the Los Angeles area since finishing his residency at Memorial Hospital of Hawthorne in 1978. At his practice in Tarzana, California, Dr. Hecht provides high-quality podiatric care with the goal of educating each patient on available treatment plans and empowering them to take an active role in their health care.

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