HEEL PAIN (PLANTAR FASCIITIS)

What is Heel Pain?

Heel pain affects everyone from time to time. However, when it persists for longer periods of time–after the uncomfortable shoes have been taken off and the feet have been rested after a busy day of strenuous activity or standing–and does not resolve on its own, it could be a sign of plantar fasciitis. Dr. Anthony Benenati, at Benenati Foot and Ankle Care Center in St. Clair Shores, Warren, & Macomb, MI, wants to help you understand this potential source of your pain.

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The heel bone and toes are connected by a thick band of connective tissue that stretches 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.

While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, the most common causes of the condition include:

Running
Being overweight
Walking/working out with shoes that do not provide adequate support, especially for people with a high arch, flat feet, or biomechanics issues that cause weight to be distributed unevenly as a person walks and stands.

How Does the Plantar Fascia Become Inflamed and Injured?

The plantar fascia primarily provides shock absorption to the heel and foot. Through increased pressure, repeated stretching, and wear and tear, the tissue can develop small tears that lead to painful swelling and inflammation.

In addition to long distance running and obesity, plantar fasciitis can also develop as a result of other factors including:

Increased age
Physical activities like ballet and 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, overpronation

For heel pain relief and plantar fasciitis treatment options, contact Benenati Foot and Ankle Care Center by calling one of our three locations: St. Clair Shores (586) 779-6140, Warren (586) 756-3338, & Macomb (586) 416-3668.

It’s Not OK to Live with Foot Pain

While it’s true that most Americans suffer from chronic foot pain, it doesn’t have to be a fact of life. Often times, foot and ankle pain can be alleviated by changing footwear or increasing movement and circulation. If your pain is caused by a new or old injury, or illness, we have proven methods to diagnose and pinpoint the root cause of the pain and treatments that can greatly reduce or eliminate your discomfort. Our number one goal is to get you up and moving, and doing the things you love to do. If foot or ankle pain is slowing you down, contact us today and get the relief you need to get back to life!

Our Team

Highly trained, experienced podiatrists at each location who genuinely care about each patient they treat.

Our Vision

With focus on your quality of life, well-being and overall health, we are able to diagnose and treat the cause, rather than the symptom, of your foot and ankle pain.

Quality Care

Personalized patient care is what sets us apart. When you visit our offices, you can expect to receive world class care.

Benenati Foot and Ankle Care Centers are conveniently located in Macomb county with podiatry offices in St. Clair Shores, Warren, and Macomb, MI.

Each location offers general foot and ankle care for people of all ages, as well as specialized treatments and surgery for sports injuries, diabetic foot care, and ankle replacements.

Starting with his first location in 1993, Dr. Benenati has been dedicated to preserving limbs and providing Michigan residents effective ankle and foot pain relief from all kinds of short term and chronic conditions. Each location is staffed with highly trained, experienced podiatrists who genuinely care about each patient they treat. By focusing on your quality of life and your overall health and well-being, they are able to diagnose and treat the cause, rather than the symptom, of your foot and ankle pain.