Heel pain can be present for many different reasons, and we can carry out a full investigation to diagnose the condition present, at our Cairns Podiatry surgery. Dr. Jeremy Hawke (Podiatrist) Can take a history and full examination of the painful region to design a management program for your treatment that is recommended by him. Some of our treatment options include:
- Gentle mobilization and correction of the bones in the feet. This can be very helpful, as over time bones that get jammed and limited in their motion can cause pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, back, shoulder and neck region. By using very gentle mobilization and correction techniques, the bones can then move in the planes of motion they were designed for. It takes from 15 minutes to 60 minutes to carry out these procedures, depending on the severity of the issue.
- Dry needling (medical acupuncture) may also be helpful in some cases. Jeremy can assess your suitability for this treatment.
- Treatment to tendons using low level laser therapy and other physical therapy modalities. This can be very beneficial in both early and chronic heel pain treatment. Assessment can be carried out to determine the benefits for your heel pain.
- 3D Laser scanned foot orthotics are an excellent way of creating a prescription correction of your foot position. Major health funds cover a significant amount of the cost for these devices. A 3D model of your foot is created to give an exact representation of your foot, to ensure the most accurate correction of your foot position. Do not confuse off the shelf orthotics with these devices, as they are very different. With up to 10,000 to 15000 steps per day on your feet, accurate alteration of your walking pattern may be essential for your foot.
- Exercise and stretching programs may be necessary to allow other parts of your body to function more effectively during your walking. Jeremy is trained in gait analysis and will also study your walking pattern using video gait analysis when required.
- Compression socks may be helpful in treating heel pain. They allow support for the feet while helping to lower pain levels in the heels when weight bearing.
- It may be necessary to order radiological investigations, including x-ray and investigative ultrasound studies, if the pain has become chronic, or has been there longer than 3 months.
- Corticosteroid injections may be helpful for some patients, especially if the pain has become chronic. Dr. Jeremy Hawke(Podiatrist) is able to prescribe these medicines for you, if required. A special appointment may be required after your initial visit for this assessment, if other treatment options are not suitable, or the pain levels in the heel are not reducing.
- Iontophoresis is also available at our surgery, where a corticosteroid is delivered to the affected area with no requirement for a needle. This can be very helpful in conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
Please call us at our surgery to make an appointment to see Jeremy for a full examination and assessment of your heel pain. Contact our surgery on (07)40543330 from Tuesdays to Saturdays, or visit our website at www.hip2Toe.com.au for an online appointment request.