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Heel Pain Treatment in Brighton, MI

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit a podiatrist and one of the most common conditions we treat at Brighton Foot & Ankle. It can range from a dull ache that builds over time to a sharp stabbing pain that makes it difficult to take your first steps in the morning. While plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause, heel pain can stem from several different conditions — and getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward finding real relief. Dr. Castelein has extensive experience identifying the root cause of heel pain and developing a treatment plan that actually works.

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1-810-227-3864

Common Causes of Heel Pain:

Heel pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Several conditions can cause pain in and around the heel including:

  • Plantar fasciitis — inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, causing sharp pain with the first steps of the morning
  • Achilles tendonitis — inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel from overuse or tight calf muscles
  • Heel spurs — bony growths on the underside of the heel bone often associated with plantar fasciitis
  • Stress fractures — small cracks in the heel bone from repetitive impact
  • Bursitis — inflammation of the fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel
  • Nerve entrapment — compression of nerves around the heel causing burning or tingling pain
  • Arthritis — joint inflammation that can affect the heel and surrounding structures

Symptoms:

Heel pain symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause but commonly include:

  • Sharp stabbing pain with the first steps in the morning
  • Pain that improves after walking but returns after prolonged standing or activity
  • Aching or throbbing pain at the end of the day
  • Tenderness when pressing on the bottom or back of the heel
  • Swelling or stiffness around the heel
  • Pain that radiates into the arch or up the back of the leg

Diagnosis:

Because heel pain can have multiple causes, accurate diagnosis is critical. Dr. Castelein performs a thorough physical examination and reviews your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. Brighton Foot & Ankle has in-office X-ray for same-visit imaging to identify heel spurs, stress fractures, or other bone-related causes. An MRI or ultrasound may be ordered when soft tissue damage is suspected.

Treatment:

Treatment depends entirely on what’s causing the pain. Dr. Castelein takes a conservative-first approach and recommends surgery only when other options have been exhausted. Common treatment options include:

  • Custom orthotics to correct foot mechanics and reduce stress on the heel
  • Stretching and physical therapy to loosen tight muscles and tendons
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling
  • Corticosteroid injections for targeted relief
  • PRP injections to promote natural healing of damaged tissue
  • Night splints to keep the foot properly positioned during sleep
  • Activity modification and supportive footwear recommendations
  • Surgical intervention for cases that don’t respond to conservative care

You May Also Be Interested In

  1. Plantar Fasciitis
  2. Achilles Tendon
  3. Custom Orthotics

Heel Pain That's Holding You Back?

Don’t just wait it out — heel pain rarely goes away on its own and tends to get worse without treatment. The sooner you get evaluated the faster you’ll find relief. Book online or call us today for an appointment in Brighton, MI.

Schedule Online
1-810-227-3864

What Our Clients Think

Client Testimonials

Julie
I'm so happy to have found Brighton Foot And Ankle in Brighton. The office staff and assistant are very pleasant. Dr. Bryant Castelein is a great knowledgeable Dr. Who has eased my worry over my medical condition. Plus he's handsome. I would highly recommend this practice for anyone needing podiatry help.
Amy
What great people to help you! From receptionist to doctor, they are top notch! You would not regret going here for any of your foot/ankle problems, they will fix you up with the utmost care and compassion.
Yo K
Dr. Castelein and staff were friendly, knowledgeable , efficient and took the time to get to know me and understand my medical needs. I would not hesitate to go to Brighton Foot & Ankle. They go out of their way to treat their patients like family.
Robert
Dr. Castelein is great; he is very nice, patient, and professional. His staff is also excellent and friendly. It's only been about three hours since having my big toenail removed and, with acetaminophen and ibuprofen, there is very little pain(sometimes I completely forget about it); he did an excellent job. Overall, I am very impressed with Dr. Casteleins Practice and I would highly recommend his office.
Joseph
Doctor & staff were so professional, friendly & efficient. I had a high risk condition that they expertly guided me through 5 months of healing. Thankfully a full recovery. I give them my best recommendation.
Lexi
Very friendly and accommodating front desk staff. Dr. Castelein and Jennifer always take their time and do an amazing job! Great variety of quick pick up over the counter products that are always affordable too. Best experience I have had at an office.
Christena
Dr. Castelein is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable in his field. During my visit he did a great job explaining my situation and was very encouraging of any questions. I never felt rushed and I believe to have received the best care possible. Highly recommend this doctor and this facility.
Nicole C
Excellent staff and exceptional doctor. I went in with Bunion issues. Dr. Castelein listened to my concerns and addressed my options. 4 days post-op bunion surgery I can say he did an amazing job. Best experience I have ever had. I would definitely recommend; I promise you won't look further.
Ashley
The staff and Dr. Castelein are all amazing. They are polite and very respectful. I came to see them in 2019 for bunion and hammer toe issues among some others. Dr. Castelein and his assistant listened to my concerns and gave me my options. He explained everything to me in detail and all my questions were answered.. I have seen other podiatrists and he is beyond the best. I would recommend him to anyone.
Alex
Friendly staff and intelligent doctor! I went in for some ankle X-rays and was given a great strategy on the different ways to heal my ankle, and how to progress forward if less invasive treatment doesn't help. I would highly recommend them to anyone with foot or ankle problems!