Heel Pain - Foot Problems Message Board

Laura B · 02-16-2004, 10:27 AM

About 2 weeks ago I developed a severe pain in the bottom of my left heel. It would start the first thing in the morning when I got up, hardly could stand on my left leg the first 15 minutes or so. I noticed that walking around a little would make it better. I'm a senior and do a firm exercise walk every day for one hour. Even though I would limp a little the first 20 minutes or so, my heel pain would completely disappear by the end of my walk. The pain was almost completely gone but 3 days ago I woke up again to the severe pain in my heel upon getting up in the morning. I stayed mostly off my feet the last two days, my foot is starting again to get better today.
I'm very confused, what is wrong with that foot (heel), why does it get better when I walk around? I don't know if I should take my walk every day or should I stay off my feet for a while? Does anyone have any idea what is wrong? Should I see a doctor? Walking and biking is a big joy at my retirment and I do worry if something would take that away from me.

thank you, Laura

fairieswearboots · 02-16-2004, 10:59 AM

Hi Laura,
It sounds like you probably have plantar fasciitis. The symptoms sound fairly classic to me from what I know about it. I don't have it but I know at least 4 people who do. It would probably be best to see a highly qualified podiatrist to see what treatments you can try to relieve the pain. I think the earlier you treat it, the better the results will be. Some of the people I know got great relief from getting custom made orthotics. The doctor can instruct you on stretching exercises also. I think it would be best to avoid cortizone injections and I have heard that surgery for that condition is not very successful and should be avoided. I am no expert on it but have read a lot about it and know people who have it. I have severe foot problems but all my problems are in the forefoot. You would probably get lots of information on it if you do an internet search and I'm sure you will get replies from others on this message board who have this condition and they may be more informative than I am. It would probably be good to gather as much information on it as you can to see if you think that is what you have while waiting to see the doctor. Good luck!

eko · 02-16-2004, 11:42 AM

I agree, it sounds like plantar fascitis. Your story sounds a lot like mine when I was diagnosed. Often with plantar fascitis, you will also have a heel spur. Mine is being treated with custom made orthotics and they have worked great. They even have a cut out for the heel spur. Find a good podiatrist. Best Wishes - eko

Rick7799 · 02-16-2004, 01:42 PM

Orthotics worked for me also. I have a heel spur and it was miserable. The orthotics took some getting used to but after some time I wore them 100%. They must be custom orthotics. A podiatrist would be the best to go to.

Laura B · 02-18-2004, 09:12 AM

Thank you for your replies. I did a Google search under "plantar fasciitis" and realize that this is exactly what is wrong with my foot. Pain first thing in the morning and getting better with walking. I have been staying off my feet as much as possible and I'm so much better, in fact, almost no pain at all. I don't think I have to see a Podiatrist yet, but if I should have another episode I will see the doctor and tell him that I suffer from "plantar fasciitis" he is going to be so impressed that a little old lady is so well informed!

Thank you, Laura