A New Year Shouldn’t Start With Pain The beginning of a new year often comes with fresh goals—being more active, feeling healthier, and getting back to routines you enjoy. But heel pain can quickly get in the way. When every step hurts, even small tasks can feel frustrating. Heel pain is one of the most common foot issues treated by podiatrists. Many people try to ignore it or hope it will go away on its own, but without proper care, heel pain often lingers or gets worse over time. Why Heel Pain Happens Heel pain can develop for several reasons, and it often builds gradually. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the tissue supporting the arch of the foot becomes inflamed. Other causes may include strain on the Achilles tendon, wearing shoes without proper support, or spending long hours on your feet. Pain is often most noticeable in the morning or after long periods of rest. While it may ease as you move around, it tends to return and can worsen without treatment. Common Conditions Linked to Heel Pain While heel pain feels similar for many people, the underlying cause can vary. Some of the most common conditions include: Plantar fasciitis Heel spurs Achilles tendon irritation Overuse or repetitive strain injuries Identifying the exact cause is key to getting the right treatment and long-term relief. Why Early Treatment Matters Ignoring heel pain can lead to changes in the way you walk. Over time, this can place added stress on your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. What starts as foot pain can turn into discomfort throughout your body. Seeing a podiatrist early can help prevent these issues and reduce recovery time. Most heel pain can be treated without surgery when addressed promptly. How a Podiatrist Can Help A podiatrist specializes in foot and ankle care and can create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Treatment may include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, footwear guidance, or other therapies designed to reduce pain and inflammation. With the right approach, many patients begin to feel relief and regain mobility. Step Into the New Year With Confidence Heel pain does not have to define your year. With proper care and treatment, you can move more comfortably and get back to doing the things you enjoy. If heel pain is holding you back, schedule a visit with a podiatrist and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free new year.

We are proud to share highlights from the Desert Foot Conference, where Dr. Matthew Regulski, DPM, FFPM RCPS (Glasgow), DABMSP, was invited to lecture on advanced wound care topics alongside leading podiatric and medical professionals from around the world.  At this highly regarded conference, Dr. Regulski presented on two critical areas in modern limb preservation and wound management: “Prepare to Repair” – a comprehensive approach to optimizing the wound environment before advanced treatment The Role of Oxygen in Chronic Wound Healing – exploring how oxygen delivery and tissue perfusion directly impact healing outcomes in complex wounds These lectures focused on evidence-based strategies for treating chronic and non-healing wounds, emphasizing the importance of preparation, vascular considerations, and biologic healing principles. Dr. Regulski’s presentations were well received and sparked meaningful discussion among peers dedicated to advancing wound care and limb salvage. Leadership in Podiatric Medicine Dr. Regulski’s participation reflects his ongoing commitment to education, research, and leadership within the podiatric community. In addition to his clinical work, he serves in several distinguished roles, including: Executive Board Member, Faculty of Podiatric Medicine The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow Scientific Committee Member, Federation of International Podiatry These positions highlight Dr. Regulski’s involvement at the highest levels of international podiatric medicine and his dedication to shaping the future of wound care and foot and ankle health. Bringing Advanced Care Back to Our Patients What happens at conferences like Desert Foot directly benefits our patients. By staying at the forefront of wound-healing science and collaborating with global experts, Dr. Regulski continues to bring the latest, most effective treatment strategies back to our practice — improving outcomes for patients with complex wounds, diabetic foot complications, and limb-threatening conditions.