Are Flip –Flops good for your feet?

Most flip-flops and athletic sandals are flat, thin, and provide little to no support for the arch of your foot. Footwear that does not support your arch can be troublesome, and either cause or worsen the painful heel condition known as plantar fasciitis.

Pain in the Heel Caused by Plantar Fasciitis

Flat, unsupportive flip-flops constantly stretch and strain the fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the base of your toes. Heel pain from plantar fasciitis can be unbearable at times. Many experience pain first thing in the morning when the fascia is stiff or when walking in unsupportive footwear for an extended period of time. The pain is described as sharp and stabbing, and is similar to the pain caused by heel spurs.

 Managing Heel Pain

Most of the time, surgery is not necessary for pain in the heel. There are many non-invasive treatments to relieve your heel pain, including:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (i.e. ibuprofen)
• Arch supports and heel cushions
• Stretching regularly
• Orthopedic taping of the arch for additional support
• Cortisone injections

If it’s not Plantar Fasciitis

Houston’s Foot Doc Sherman Nagler says Heel Pain may be caused by plantar fasciitis most of the time, but this is not always the case. Pain may be caused from stepping on something hard that bruises your fat pad under the heel. An inflamed Achilles tendon can also cause pain behind your heel, and is often attributed to heel spurs, or excessive running or walking. Another culprit of heel pain is high heels because they can shorten the Achilles tendon, which connects the heel bones to the calf muscles.

Don’t Wait to Seek Treatment

If left untreated, heel pain will usually continue to bother you. With the simple, non-invasive treatments available, there is no reason for you to continue to suffer. If you’re ready to find the right solution for your heel pain, Call Dr. Sherman Nagler at 713.529.1010. Please go to www.FootHouston.com