Heel pain may improve on its own

DEAR DOCTOR K: I have plantar fasciitis. Can I use a drugstore product to treat it? Or should I see a doctor?

DEAR READER: Plantar fasciitis is heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament-like structure that runs from your heel to the ball of your foot. Plantar fasciitis can occur when too much pressure or strain is placed on the plantar fascia.

Plantar fasciitis causes pain under your heel when you first get out of bed. The pain may ease as you walk around, only to return later in the day. Try to always walk in shoes that have good heel support, even when you first get out of bed (have shoes, not slippers, at the bedside).

If you have to walk on very hard surfaces, such as a concrete floor, use shoes that have softer, compressible heels and soles. If such shoes give only partial relief, consider buying “orthopedic” shoes that have extra sole and heel supports. Such shoes may not be fashionable, but forget fashion for a while.

Plantar fasciitis usually goes away on its own, but it can take six weeks to 12 months. To treat your heel pain, start with stretching exercises and over-the-counter products and medications.

When pain first occurs, rest a few days, gently stretch your foot and apply ice. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) will help reduce swelling and ease pain. Over-the-counter cushion inserts and supportive low-heeled (not flat) shoes will ease pressure on your heels.

If you’re still in pain after six to eight weeks, consult a foot-care specialist. He or she may recommend physical therapy, night splints, or a steroid injection to reduce pain and inflammation.

In my experience, the simpler approaches I’ve recommended, plus the passage of time, seem to improve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.