Heel pain can be debilitating. When dealing with heel pain, it may be difficult to figure out what's happening and if you should go to the doctor. With some issues, going to the doctor isn't as necessary as with others. For example, if your feet hurt because you went hiking, your heel pain may disappear after a couple of days because your feet are just tired, and once they get a break, they can start to feel better. However, some issues can be severe and will require medical treatment. Knowing when to see your doctor can make it easier for you to decide to make an appointment.
Pain When Resting
If you are dealing with pain in your heels even when you have your feet up and are doing nothing, you should call your doctor. This is especially true if it has been happening for more than a couple of days. The longer you ignore pain like this, the more damage you are likely to do to yourself. Pain is your body's way of telling you that you have injured yourself or pushed yourself too far. If the activity ends and you're still in pain even if you have put your feet up, you have likely caused an injury that will need to be seen by a doctor.
Heat or Swelling
If your heel is hot or swollen, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. Both of those things can be a sign that you have an infection in your heel. When your body is fighting off an infection, it can make the infected area very tender and sore and cause swelling and heat. The heat and swelling are caused by blood rushing to the site to fight the infection. You need to see your doctor as soon as possible so that you can start treatment for the pain and inflammation in your heel. Waiting too long can mean that the infection moves into the bone of your foot, which is very difficult to treat appropriately.
Often, heel pain lets you know that something needs healing, and resting or putting your feet up will help you feel better. However, there are times when resting your feet is not the best idea, and you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Knowing what some of those times are can make it easier for you to see your doctor.
For more information, reach out to a heel pain doctor.
Share15 February 2023
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