Why Won’t My Heel Pain Go Away?
Understanding Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain—affecting around 10% of people at some point in their lives. For many, it resolves with rest, stretching, and supportive footwear. But for others, the pain lingers. If you’ve been asking, “Why won’t my heel pain go away?”—this blog is for you.
What Makes Plantar Fasciitis Chronic?
Plantar fasciitis isn’t just an inflammation—it’s now understood as a degenerative condition. Over time, the fascia (the thick band of tissue under your foot) can develop microtears, collagen breakdown, and even nerve involvement. This means that rest alone may not be enough.
Factors that contribute include:
Flat feet or high arches
Poor footwear choices
Repetitive strain from walking, running, or standing
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
Weight-bearing stress without proper support
When First-Line Treatments Aren’t Working
Most people start with:
Stretching exercises
Orthotic insoles
Anti-inflammatory medications
Ice therapy
Footwear changes
These are often helpful—but if your pain continues beyond 6–12 months, it’s time to explore further options.
Other non-surgical treatments include:
Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing
Night splints to gently stretch the fascia overnight
Taping or strapping for temporary support
What About Injections or Surgery?
Surgery is usually reserved for patients who have tried everything else—those whose symptoms haven’t improved after nine to twelve months of conservative treatment, and whose daily life is significantly affected.
Corticosteroid injections: Can reduce pain but may weaken the fascia over time
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): A regenerative option gaining popularity
Surgical release: Reserved for severe, refractory cases—though it carries risks like arch instability and longer recovery
A Holistic Approach to Healing
At Accura Podiatry, I believe in treating the whole person—not just the foot. That means:
Assessing your gait and biomechanics
Reviewing lifestyle factors and stress levels
Creating a calm, supportive environment for healing
Of course, Anna. Here's a shorter, natural version of the treatment plan section, written in a warm, human tone:
Your Treatment Plan
At Accura Podiatry, I take time to understand your lifestyle, symptoms, and foot mechanics before creating a treatment plan. It starts with a thorough assessment—looking at how you move, what shoes you wear, and what might be contributing to your pain.
Most plans begin with simple steps: stretching, footwear advice, and custom orthotics. If needed, we may add therapies like shockwave treatment or taping. And if things don’t improve, we’ll explore more advanced options together.
