Q: I am a 28 years old man having calcaneus pain in my feet (heel pain) for the last one year. I have a history of gout in both the knee joints. The pain in the knee bones has completely healed. I had taken medicines to control my uric acid levels and also took calcium for 3 months. What is the treatment for calcaneus pain in the feet? Is there any natural way of treating it? Please advise.

A:Inflammation of the plantar fascia, called plantar fascitis, is the most common cause of heel pain. Heel pain is difficult to cure and often takes months to subside, but most cases can be resolved using conservative treatment methods. Conservative treatment includes the following:

• Avoiding activities that worsen the condition (e.g., prolonged standing, strenuous exercise)
• Applying ice to the area to reduce pain and inflammation
• Wearing well-cushioned shoes that fit properly

Orthotics and shoe inserts can provide proper support, correct misalignments and imbalances in the foot, and alleviate pressure on heel spurs. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy also may be used to relieve heel pain.

Conventional surgery may be necessary to treat severe heel pain that does not resolve or that continues to worsen after 6 months of treatment. Surgery for heel pain may involve release of the plantar fascia by endoscopic methods or surgical removal, or surgical removal of a heel spur or bursa (fluid filled sac).