What should I do about heel pain?

Heel pain can be caused by various factors, including Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and fat pad atrophy. The following measures can help alleviate heel pain:

1. Rest and avoid overexertion: Reduce pressure on the heel, avoid prolonged standing or walking, especially on hard surfaces.

2. Ice application: Apply an ice pack to the painful area for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily, to reduce inflammation and pain.

3. Appropriate footwear and support: Wear suitable shoes, avoid high heels and flat shoes, and use arch supports or custom orthotic insoles to distribute foot pressure.

4. Physical therapy: Use heat application, cold therapy, or other physical treatments to improve blood circulation and relieve inflammation and pain.

5. Medication: Take oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or celecoxib, to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Topical analgesic ointments or patches can also be applied.

If the pain persists or worsens, it is recommended to seek medical examination immediately.