Ignore that twinge of pain in your heel in the morning and there’s a good chance that it will escalate, according to PridePlus Health podiatrist, Sikhie Samarasekera.
“Treating your sore heel early is the key to good health,” Sikhie said.
“We’ve all heard the old adage, ‘from little things big things grow’ – it’s true, pain, even low-level pain, is an indicator that something is not right. Untreated it will only get worse.”
Sikhie is one of the team at PridePlus Health. Consistently ranked the best podiatry team in Melbourne, PridePlus Health has clinics in Emerald, Melbourne CBD and Pascoe Vale.
Sikhie sees patients at the Emerald clinic, alongside the ‘hills team’ of Tanya Contis and Laura Ward.
“There can be all sorts of reasons why someone experiences pain in their heels in the morning,” Sikhie said.
“At this time of year, people may have sudden bursts of energy and plans to get fit and then have overuse injuries from going too hard, too fast. Or it can be as simple as a game of beach cricket after an afternoon stretched out in the sun.’’
While the PridePlus Health team are able to provide expert advice, treatment and cutting edge interrogative evaluation, the team also encourages people to consider what they can do before the twinge or ache becomes more of an issue.
“There are simple exercises that you can do at home which can build strength and aid recovery from heel pain,’’ he said.
He describes calf raises as ‘the best exercise in the world’ for their ability to increase muscle strength through all of the muscles that wrap around the inside, outside and back of the lower leg and into the heel. This increased strength then leads to increased capacity of the fascia and tendons around your heel to do work.
“It’s an easy exercise but it needs to be done slowly and carefully to get the most benefit.’’
Sikhie advises that the PridePlus Health website has instructions on calf raises and other beneficial activities.
“People with sore feet can also sign up for the monthly PridePack newsletter for great advice on shoes, orthotics, and different exercises.
“We not only want to fix your feet problems but we also want to empower you to be able to make wise choices. That’s why we love to teach our clients and share our knowledge.”
You can learn more about looking after your feet at prideplus.com.au or book in your appointment with Sikhie and the team in Emerald via the website or phone 03 9068 0966.
