Flatiron Foot & Ankle Clinic Heel Pain Treatment in Longmont, CO
Heel Pain Diagnosis & Treatment—Find Lasting Relief for Heel Discomfort
Heel pain can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition that affects your ability to walk, work, and enjoy life. Whether your symptoms began gradually or after a specific activity, understanding the cause — and getting the right treatment — is key to long-term relief. At Flatirons Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Ritchie Steed helps patients throughout Longmont, CO uncover the source of heel pain and receive effective, customized care.
What Is Heel Pain?
Heel pain is not a condition itself but a symptom with many possible causes. Because the heel bears a significant portion of your weight, any injury, inflammation, or stress in the tissues around it can lead to persistent discomfort.
Typical Symptoms of Heel Pain
People experiencing heel pain often describe:
Pain under the heel or at the back where the Achilles tendon inserts
Sharp discomfort with the first few steps in the morning
Pain that worsens after rest or prolonged standing
Swelling or tenderness around the heel bone
These symptoms can come from different sources — so proper evaluation is vital.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Some of the most frequent causes include:
Plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the ligament supporting the arch
Achilles tendinitis – inflammation of the tendon connecting calf muscles to the heel
Heel spurs – bony protrusions that develop due to repetitive stress
Bursitis – inflamed fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints
Activities that involve running, jumping, or long periods of standing can increase strain on the heel and contribute to these conditions.
How We Evaluate Heel Pain & Personal Treatment Plans
At your visit, Dr. Steed will take a detailed history and perform a physical examination to assess gait, muscle strength, and tissue sensitivity. Digital in-office X-rays or other imaging may help confirm a diagnosis by ruling out stress fractures or bone abnormalities.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Once a diagnosis is made, treatment may include:
Conservative, evidence-based therapies
Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure
Stretching and strength rehabilitation
Anti-inflammatory modalities
Targeted therapeutic techniques
For more complex or persistent cases, advanced options such as shockwave therapy may be introduced.
Heel Pain Prevention
To support your recovery and prevent future episodes:
Wear supportive shoes with adequate cushioning
Warm up before activity, including calf and foot stretches
Avoid overtraining without gradual progression
Alternate high-impact activities with low-impact cross-training
Why Trust Flatirons Foot & Ankle Clinic and Dr Steed for Heal Pain Treatment in Longmont, CO
Heel pain can feel vague and frustrating because it can mimic other conditions. What sets Dr. Steed apart is his commitment to comprehensive assessment and customized treatment — not just a generic “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a Longmont-based podiatrist with years of clinical experience, he combines diagnostic precision with supportive care that puts your comfort and mobility first.
Start your journey to pain-free steps.
Schedule your heel pain consultation in Longmont today.