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Living with Heel Pain in the South Chicago Suburbs?

Here's What You Can Do

Heel Pain Management

Heel pain affects millions of people and can make every step a challenge. At ASG Foot & Ankle Clinic in the South Chicago suburbs, we understand how debilitating heel pain can be. As board-certified podiatrists with nearly 30 years of experience treating heel conditions, we've helped countless patients in Homewood, South Chicago Heights, and Mokena find relief and regain their mobility.

Whether you're dealing with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, or other heel conditions, this guide will help you understand your options and take control of your heel pain.

Immediate Relief Strategies

RICE Protocol

R

Rest

Avoid activities that aggravate your heel pain. Take breaks from standing or walking.

I

Ice

Apply ice for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily. Use a cloth to protect your skin.

C

Compression

Use compression bandages or sleeves to reduce swelling and provide support.

E

Elevation

Keep your foot elevated above heart level when sitting to reduce swelling.

Quick Pain Relief

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce inflammation and pain
  • Topical treatments: Capsaicin creams or menthol-based rubs for localized relief
  • Heat therapy: After the acute phase, warm compresses can improve blood flow
  • Massage: Gentle calf and foot massages can relieve tension

Long-term Management Strategies

Essential Stretching Exercises

Calf Stretch

Stand facing a wall, place one foot back, keep heel down, lean forward until you feel stretch in calf. Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times.

Do 2-3 times daily

Plantar Fascia Stretch

Sit with affected leg crossed over opposite knee. Gently pull toes back toward shin until you feel stretch in arch. Hold 30 seconds.

Do 2-3 times daily

Towel Curl

Place a towel on the floor, use toes to scrunch it toward you. This strengthens the muscles that support the arch.

10 repetitions, 2-3 times daily

Achilles Stretch

Stand on a step with heels hanging off. Slowly lower one heel below step level until you feel stretch. Hold 30 seconds.

Do 2-3 times daily

Choosing the Right Footwear

Good Arch Support

Shoes with proper arch support distribute pressure evenly and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

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Low Heels

Avoid high heels. Keep heel height under 1 inch to minimize pressure on the heel and Achilles tendon.

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Wide Toe Box

Shoes with adequate toe room prevent toes from being squeezed together, reducing overall foot strain.

Professional Treatments Available in South Chicago Suburbs

Custom Orthotics

Prescription orthotics are customized to your foot structure and gait pattern. They provide targeted support to reduce heel pain and prevent recurrence.

  • • Computerized gait analysis
  • • 3D foot scanning technology
  • • Materials tailored to your needs
  • • Covered by most insurance plans

Advanced Therapies

When conservative treatments aren't enough, we offer cutting-edge therapies that aren't available everywhere in the South Chicago suburbs.

  • • Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
  • • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
  • • Laser therapy for inflammation
  • • Minimally invasive surgical options

Lifestyle Changes That Make a Difference

Daily Habits

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet
  • Gradually increase activity levels to avoid overuse injuries
  • Replace athletic shoes every 300-500 miles of use
  • Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces

Activity Modifications

  • Switch to low-impact activities like swimming or cycling
  • Use proper form during exercise to avoid heel strain
  • Warm up before activities and cool down afterward
  • Listen to your body and rest when pain increases

When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of heel pain can be managed at home, certain situations require professional evaluation:

Seek Care If:

  • • Pain persists beyond 2 weeks of home treatment
  • • Pain is severe enough to limit daily activities
  • • You have diabetes or poor circulation
  • • The pain is accompanied by swelling or redness
  • • You develop a limp or change in gait

Emergency Signs:

  • • Sudden, severe pain after an injury
  • • Inability to bear weight on the affected foot
  • • Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)
  • • Numbness or tingling in the foot
  • • Pain that worsens at night or with rest

Don't Let Heel Pain Control Your Life

Our experienced podiatrists in the South Chicago suburbs specialize in heel pain treatment. From plantar fasciitis to heel spurs, we can help you find relief and get back to the activities you love.