Why do I get heel pain in the mornings? Top 5 tips to help YOU!
Is heel pain stopping you from getting out of bed in the morning? Do you ever get out of bed and as soon as your feet hit the floor you're grimacing? We understand! Heel pain can be so debilitating! If you're limping out of bed in the mornings and can't do the things you enjoy, you might stop exercising and pain starts showing on your face. Life can become just plain miserable!
So why is your heel pain worse at some times more than others? Well, when you injure the structure under your heel (called the plantar fascia) inflammatory fluid collects in the area when you are resting, causing pain and discomfort when you go to stand up. When you have walked for a few steps the fluid disperses due to the pressure from putting your feet on the ground - however the injury remains. (That is until we heal it!)
If you are one of the many people suffering with heel pain we know that you want fast, effective relief. Here are a few tips to help you get started on the right track towards finding relief and walking PAIN FREE!
5 Things to do while you are waiting for the right care
Ice, Ice, Ice!
One of the best pieces of advice we can give whilst you wait for your appointment is to apply an ice pack to the sore area. Sit back and apply the ice pack for 10 minutes, then remove it for 10 minutes, and repeat! This won't cure the problem but it can provide some relief until we can take a look.
Supportive footwear!
A good shoe will act like a brace for your foot; it will support your foot posture and cushion your heel. Make sure your shoe has a firm heel cup and minimal twist in the midsole, and wear shoes as much as possible! Remember to bring a few pairs of the shoes you wear regularly to your appointment so that we can check them out to make sure they are going to help your heels.
Stretch!
Perform a slow, gentle calf stretch twice a day to help make walking a little easier. Stretching alone won't get most people better but it can give you a little relief in the meantime. Be sure not to overstretch though, as we have found that this has made some people's heel pain worse!
Slow down a little!
We don't stop you when you are recovering. All of our heel pain relief treatments allow your heals to heal while you work, run around after the kids and do what you need to do! We understand you need to keep going. Injuries to the feet and legs can be tricky to heal, especially if you are on your feet a lot. Try minimising your high impact activities, and avoid movements and actions that aggravate your heel pain, this will give the structures a break and time to heal.
Pain relief
If safe to do so (always check with your doctor first!) taking the recommended dose of pain relief medication and anti-inflammatories can help. These treatments are not good long term and should only be taken as recommended. These medications will not treat the likely underlying cause of your pain.
Please note that these tips help with giving you some symptomatic relief. To find full relief you need to correctly treat the cause of your heel pain. If you're tired of suffering, relieve your pain by giving us a call. We can treat the true cause of your heel pain and get you back to your active life.
All of our podiatrists help people suffering with heel pain every day and have additional training and techniques available to them to help relieve your heel pain. Our Podiatrists have already helped thousands of people through the region- they really know their stuff!
Your consultations are health fund rebateable and no referral is required to see our podiatrists. For your relief make an appointment by clicking the book now button below or call one of our local podiatrists today!