Suffering From Heel Pain? So are President Obama, NBA Players Dwyane Wade & Kobe Bryant

If you’re suffering from heel pain, you’re not alone. In fact, you are among some of society’s most notable names, like U.S. President Barack Obama and NBA stars Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant.

Heel pain, often known as plantar fasciitis, is a common ailment many basketball players experience, which is why it is also coined “basketball heel”. This is because of rapid movements of the foot that cause arch muscles and ligaments to overexert     themselves. President Obama is known for his love of basketball, so it’s no surprise that he too is suffering from this basketball-related condition.

Constantly being on his feet, playing golf and other sports could also be the culprits to Mr. President’s ailment.

“The president has had [the condition] off and on over a 6-month period,” physician to the President Ronny Jackson, M.D., told Lifescript in an exclusive interview. “He experiences pain when he overdoes it—it usually clears up.”

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the ligament (plantar fascia) that connects the heel to the ball of your foot and supports your arch becomes inflamed. When this ligament becomes strained it also inflames your heel, which causes you to experience heel pain.

“Obama is treating the problem by resting his right foot for a couple of days, applying ice packs, taking anti-inflammatory medication and switching from treadmill workouts to an elliptical machine,” Dr. Jackson continued. “The president’s overall health is ‘excellent.’”

Dr. Jackson contributes his excellent health on his “healthy lifestyle choices” he makes and working out “pretty much every day.”

According to the Huffington Post, other notable NBA athletes who’ve experienced heel pain, include:

• Al Jefferson (2014)
• Pau Gasol (2013)
• Joe Johnson (2013)
• Dwyane Wade (2012)
• Tyreke Evans (2011)
• Joakim Noah (2010)
• Ron Atest (2010)
• Tony Parker (2010)
• Andre Iguodala (2010)
• Tim Duncan (2005/2006)
• Kobe Bryant (2004)
• Steve Francis (2001)
• Patrick Ewing (2000)
• Rik Smits (1997)

It’s important to note that plantar fasciitis is not a condition reserved for athletes. Those with flat feet, or who suffer from obesity, tight Achilles tendons, experience repetitive trauma, and make poor shoe choices can also develop this painful condition. It is believed that about 10 percent of non-athletes experience heel pain at some point in their lives.

“Heel pain is a very common condition we see at Triad Foot Center,” says Dr. Norman Regal. “We have several non-invasive procedures, like EPAT, which can help alleviate heel pain and get you back on your feet faster. Heel pain is not something you should have to live with.”

If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t suffer in silence. Call one of our podiatrists at Triad Foot Center at (336) 375-6990 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Triad Foot Center has three convenient locations in the Triad including Greensboro, Burlington and Asheboro.

 

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