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Heel Pain Specialist

Jim Francois, D.P.M., P.T, PA -  - Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Jim Francois, D.P.M., P.T, PA

Foot & Ankle Surgeon & Podiatrist located in North Miami Beach, FL

Although heel pain may be mild at first, it can quickly progress to debilitating. Podiatrist Jim François, DPM, PT, PA can diagnose your heel pain and develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. With an office location in North Miami Beach, Florida, Dr. François can get you back on your feet and feeling better in no time. Call the office today to see about scheduling your initial consultation, or use our convenient online booking agent to schedule your appointment. Dr.François also serves the communities of Aventura, Miami, Miami Gardens, Miami Lakes, North Miami, Opa-Locka, and Sunny Isles, FL.

Heel Pain Q & A

What are the symptoms of heel pain?

Depending on the cause of your heel pain, it can manifest in various symptoms. Heel pain can occur around the ankle or on the bottom of the foot. It may stretch to the arch of the foot or have an isolated location.

Your heel pain may worsen after a period of inactivity, or it may worsen with activity. It may come on quick, called acute heel pain, or it progressively worsens over time, called chronic heel pain.

Along with pain, you may experience:

  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Bruising
  • Limited range of motion

What causes heel pain?

Many ailments, conditions, and issues can result in heel pain. You may injure your ankle while working or while playing sports. Heel pain can result from overuse or an underlying, chronic condition. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Bursitis
  • Nerve pain, including neuropathy
  • Bone fractures
  • Stone bruises
  • Heel spurs

How do you treat heel pain?

Dr. François uses various factors when determining how to treat your heel pain, including the cause and the severity of your symptoms. In cases of both acute and chronic inflammation, he may recommend a RICE treatment: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

He may also suggest wearing a heel insert to improve your gait and reduce pressure on your heel. Over-the-counter pain medications can help with any discomfort. He advises you to wear shoes and avoid open-backed sandals.

Dr.François may prescribe your exercises that can strengthen and stretch weak areas of your heel, foot, and calf muscles.

If these treatments don’t improve your condition, he may recommend taping or strapping your foot to support your ankle. Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain. For severe injuries and conditions, Dr. François may suggest wearing a walking boot or opt for a surgical procedure.

Find a way to improve your heel pain once and for all. Call Dr.François’s office today to book your appointment, or use our online scheduling tool. With his help, you’ll be back on your feet quicker than you thought possible.

Conditions & Treatments