Heel Pain Specialist in Singapore
Heel pain is a common problem that can make everyday activities like walking or standing unbearable. If you’re experiencing persistent heel pain, it’s essential to seek expert care from a heel pain specialist in Singapore.
At Centurion Orthopaedic Centre, our experienced team provides comprehensive diagnosis and heel pain treatment for various conditions including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, and more. Our specialists are dedicated to providing accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plans, utilising non-surgical, minimally invasive, and surgical approaches to address your specific needs.
When to See a Heel Pain Specialist
While occasional heel pain may resolve with home care, certain symptoms indicate the need for specialist care:
- Persistent heel pain lasting more than two weeks
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around the heel
- Difficulty bearing weight on the heel
- Pain that worsens with activity or after periods of rest
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the heel area
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s recommended to seek medical care or treatment as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to maximising treatment outcomes and preventing long-term pain.
Common Heel Conditions Treated
Our heel pain specialists in Singapore have extensive experience in treating a wide range of heel injuries and conditions, including:
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot) causing sharp pain, especially in the morning or after rest.
Heel Spurs
Calcium deposits that form bony protrusions on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis.
Achilles Tendonitis
Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, leading to pain at the back of the heel.
Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) at the back of the heel, causing pain and swelling.
Sever's Disease
Common in children and adolescents, this condition involves inflammation of the growth plate in the heel.
Stress Fractures
Small cracks in the heel bone due to repetitive stress or overuse.
Diagnosis of Heel Pain
Our specialists utilise various diagnostic tools and procedures to gain the full picture of your condition:
- Physical Examination: Assessing tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and overall foot and ankle alignment.
- X-rays: To visualise bone structures and identify any abnormalities, such as heel spurs or fractures.
- MRI: To provide detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
- Ultrasound: For real-time imaging of soft tissues and detecting inflammation.
- Gait Analysis: Evaluating walking patterns to identify biomechanical factors contributing to heel pain.
A combination of these techniques may be used to confirm a diagnosis and support a personalised treatment or injury recovery plan.
Non-Surgical Heel Pain Treatments
Many cases of heel pain can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments such as:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that aggravate heel pain and allowing the tissues to heal.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles.
- Orthotic Devices: Custom-made orthotics or arch supports to provide support, improve foot alignment, and reduce pressure on the heel.
- Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain and swelling.
- Steroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids around the inflamed area to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Non-invasive shockwave treatment to stimulate healing and reduce pain.
- Night Splints: Worn while sleeping to keep the plantar fascia stretched and prevent morning stiffness.
Advanced Surgical Solutions
While non-surgical options are often the first line of treatment, surgery may be considered for severe or persistent heel pain that doesn’t respond to conservative measures. Options include minimally-invasive techniques (for faster recovery) or procedures such as:
- Plantar Fascia Radiofrequency: Using Radiofrequency to make small cuts in the plantar fascia to relieve tension and pain and stimulate healing.
- Heel Spur Removal: Surgical removal of the bony protrusion causing pain and discomfort
- Achilles Tendon Repair: Repairing or reconstructing a damaged or ruptured Achilles tendon
- Bursa Removal: Removing the inflamed bursa to alleviate pain and swelling
Recovery and Rehabilitation for Heel Pain
Following heel pain treatment, proper recovery and rehabilitation are essential for long-term success. Key components of a post-treatment rehab regimen include:
- Working with a physical therapist to regain strength, flexibility, and normal movement patterns
- Following a structured plan to gradually increase activity levels and avoid re-injury
- Wearing supportive footwear
- Continuing prescribed exercises at home to maintain flexibility and strength in the feet and ankles
Preventing Heel Pain and Injuries
It’s better to be proactive and prevent heel pain early, when possible. Small actions that you can take to support good heel health include:
Wearing Proper Footwear:
Choose shoes with adequate arch support, cushioning, and a comfortable fit.
Gradually Increasing Activity Levels:
Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, which can overload the heel.
Stretching Regularly:
Stretch your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon regularly, especially before and after exercise.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight:
Excess weight can put extra stress on your heels.
Avoiding Walking Barefoot on Hard Surfaces:
This can strain the plantar fascia and contribute to heel pain.
Choosing the Right Heel Pain Specialist
When seeking treatment for heel pain, consider the following factors when choosing your specialist:
Experience in Treating Heel Conditions:
Look for expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of heel conditions, both common and complex.
Access to Advanced Diagnostic Tools:
Ensure the specialist has access to the necessary diagnostic tools for accurate assessment.
Comprehensive Treatment Options:
Choose a specialist who offers a variety of both non-surgical and surgical treatment options.
Patient-Centered Care:
The specialist should prioritise your individual needs and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Positive Patient Outcomes:
Look for a proven track record of successful treatments and satisfied patients.
Consult our orthopaedic specialist in Singapore today about treatments for heel pain and injuries. At Centurion Orthopaedic Centre, we understand the challenges of living with heel pain that limits your mobility and quality-of-life. We’re committed to providing personalised care that helps you find relief, regain mobility, and improve your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heel Pain Treatment
What are the common causes of heel pain?
Heel pain can be caused by various factors, including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, bursitis, stress fractures, nerve entrapment, and systemic conditions like arthritis.
Can heel pain be treated without surgery?
Yes, most cases of heel pain can be effectively treated with non-surgical approaches like rest, physical therapy, orthotics, medications, and injections.
How long does recovery take after heel pain treatment?
Recovery time varies depending on the underlying condition and the treatment received. Non-surgical treatments may take a few weeks to a few months, while conditions requiring surgery can take a few months.
What are the costs associated with heel pain treatment in Singapore?
The cost of heel pain treatment varies depending on the type of treatment, the severity of the condition, and the healthcare provider. It’s best to consult with a heel pain specialist to discuss your treatment options and get a personalised cost estimate.