DEAR DR. GOTT: My 63-year-old mother has complained every day for three months about a sore heel. It feels better when I massage it for her, and it also helps if she stays off her feet. She believes it’s only the sole that hurts but refuses to see her doctor, so we would appreciate your thoughts on the matter.
DEAR READER: There are a number of reasons for a person to complain of foot pain, whether it presents in the heel or in the sole. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a full history from you, such as whether your mother is still employed and stands on her feet all day, whether she is dedicated to fitness and jogs to stay in shape, whether she is somewhat sedentary and has recently gained or carries excessive weight, or whether she simply prefers to wear shoes that don’t support her feet properly. [Read more...]