There’s nothing quite like that first painful step in the morning — that sharp, stabbing sensation in your heel that makes you wince before the day even begins. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Heel pain is one of the most common issues we see at Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, especially among active adults, professionals on their feet all day, and even weekend walkers who just want to stay healthy.

As foot specialists in Norwalk, CT, we’ve helped countless patients overcome this kind of pain — the kind that makes simple things like getting out of bed, walking to your car, or going for a jog feel impossible. The good news? You don’t have to live with it. Our plantar fasciitis treatment in Norwalk, CT is designed to target the root cause of your heel pain and get you back to the active life you love.

Heel pain can be incredibly discouraging. We meet patients every day who’ve tried rolling their feet on frozen water bottles, stretching before bed, or buying new shoes — only to find that nothing seems to work. That’s because heel pain isn’t just about sore feet — it’s a deeper problem that needs precise care. And that’s exactly what we specialize in.

What’s Really Causing Your Heel Pain?

In most cases, the culprit is plantar fasciitis — inflammation of the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that connects your heel bone to your toes. This tissue supports your foot’s arch and absorbs shock as you move. When it becomes overstressed or inflamed, it causes microtears that lead to that familiar stabbing pain.

Some common triggers include:

• Standing for long hours on hard surfaces
  
  
• Wearing shoes without proper arch support
  
  
• Sudden increases in activity
  
  
• Weight gain
  
  
• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons
  
  

We often explain to our patients that plantar fasciitis is like a rope that’s been pulled too tight for too long — eventually, the fibers start to fray. The longer it goes untreated, the harder it becomes to heal.

Why Heel Pain Shouldn’t Be Ignored

It might seem easy to “walk it off,” but chronic heel pain can quickly turn into a bigger issue. Left untreated, your body begins to compensate — shifting weight, changing your gait, and overloading other muscles and joints. This can lead to knee, hip, or even back pain over time.

We’ve seen people put off care for months, thinking the pain will fade on its own. But when they finally come in, their pain has progressed, and recovery takes longer. That’s why seeking heel pain relief in Norwalk, CT early can make all the difference.

How We Diagnose Plantar Fasciitis

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we take a personalized, in-depth approach. Every patient’s foot structure, lifestyle, and activity level are different — and so is every case of heel pain.

Your appointment starts with a thorough evaluation:

• We review your medical and activity history.
  
  
• We perform a physical exam to pinpoint pain and inflammation.
  
  
• When needed, we use diagnostic imaging like X-rays to rule out heel spurs or stress fractures.
  
  

From there, we build a custom treatment plan that fits your exact needs — not just a one-size-fits-all solution.

Our Advanced Approach to Heel Pain Relief

Traditional methods like stretching, ice, and rest can help temporarily, but many patients need something more to truly heal. That’s why we offer advanced, non-invasive solutions right here in our Norwalk office.

One of the most effective is MLS Laser Therapy — a breakthrough treatment that uses dual-wavelength light energy to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate tissue repair. This therapy can relieve pain and swelling without any downtime or side effects.

Our patients often start to notice improvements after just a few sessions, and full results continue to build as the tissue regenerates. MLS Laser Therapy is especially effective for chronic plantar fasciitis, where traditional methods have failed.

We may also recommend:

• Custom orthotics for long-term support
  
  
• Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility
  
  
• Night splints to keep the fascia stretched overnight
  
  
• Physical therapy to restore function and prevent recurrence
  
  

Every plan is designed around your comfort and long-term results.

What Sets Our Care Apart

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we don’t just treat pain — we treat people. We understand how discouraging it can be to feel limited by something as simple as heel pain. Our mission is to help you find relief that lasts — and regain the freedom to live, work, and move comfortably again.

We use evidence-based techniques, the latest technology, and a compassionate approach that keeps your lifestyle goals in mind. Whether you’re a teacher on your feet all day, a runner training for your next race, or a parent keeping up with your kids, we’ll tailor your care to fit you.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your heel pain has lasted longer than two weeks or is interfering with daily activities, it’s time to see a specialist. Pain that lingers after rest, worsens in the morning, or affects both heels may signal something more serious that needs professional attention.

Don’t wait for it to become unbearable. The earlier you seek care, the faster and more effectively we can help you recover.

Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living

We’ve helped hundreds of Norwalk residents walk, run, and live comfortably again — and we can help you too. Whether your pain just started or has been holding you back for months, there’s a solution waiting.

If you’re ready to finally stop “just living with it,” click here to set up a consultation and take your first step toward lasting relief.

There’s nothing more frustrating than persistent heel pain. You’ve tried changing shoes, icing, stretching, and even over-the-counter pain relievers, yet the discomfort persists. For many of our patients here at Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, that lingering pain is caused by a heel spur — a tiny calcium deposit on the bottom of the heel bone that can feel like walking on a sharp pebble with every step.

Heel spurs often develop slowly and silently. Many people don’t even know they have one until it causes enough inflammation to trigger noticeable pain. Unfortunately, this type of heel pain can interfere with daily life, from simple walks to exercise routines or even standing at work. At our clinic in Norwalk, CT, we see patients who have been struggling for months — sometimes years — before they find the care that finally works.

Our mission is to provide lasting relief through a combination of precise diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and individualized care. If you’ve been suffering from chronic heel pain, it’s important to know that professional help can make a significant difference — and the sooner you address the problem, the better the outcome.

Understanding Heel Spurs and Chronic Heel Pain

Heel spurs form when calcium deposits accumulate on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis, as repeated stress and inflammation can trigger the body to deposit calcium in the area. While some heel spurs are painless, others can cause sharp, stabbing sensations — especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting.

Chronic heel pain caused by heel spurs can gradually alter your gait and posture, leading to additional strain on your knees, hips, and lower back. This domino effect is why addressing heel spurs promptly is so important. Ignoring the pain may temporarily help you cope, but it rarely resolves the underlying problem — and over time, it can become much more difficult to treat.

Our goal at Fairfield County Foot Surgeons is to identify the exact cause of your heel pain and implement a treatment plan that addresses both the spur and the surrounding inflammation, ensuring you achieve lasting relief.

How We Diagnose Heel Spurs

When you visit our clinic, we begin with a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the cause of your heel pain. This includes:

• A detailed review of your medical and activity history
  
  
• A physical examination of your feet, ankles, and gait
  
  
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence of a heel spur
  
  

Understanding the precise location and severity of the spur, as well as any associated inflammation, allows us to develop a personalized treatment plan that targets the root cause — not just the symptoms.

Our patients often tell us they were surprised by how much a careful evaluation clarified the cause of their pain. For many, understanding what’s happening inside their heel is the first step toward feeling empowered and hopeful about recovery.

Treatment Options for Heel Spurs

Not every heel spur requires surgery. In fact, many patients respond very well to non-invasive treatments. These include:

• MLS Laser Therapy: This advanced therapy uses light energy to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote tissue repair. For chronic heel pain, MLS Laser Therapy can provide relief without surgery, downtime, or medication. Patients often notice improvements within just a few sessions, with lasting results after completing the full treatment plan.
  
  
• Custom Orthotics: Properly designed orthotics can correct imbalances in your foot mechanics, redistribute pressure, and reduce strain on the plantar fascia and heel.
  
  
• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises help improve flexibility in the calves and plantar fascia while strengthening supporting muscles to prevent recurrence.
  
  
• Anti-inflammatory Treatments and Lifestyle Modifications: Ice, supportive footwear, and temporary activity adjustments can complement other treatments and speed recovery.
  
  

Our team evaluates which combination of therapies is best for you. By addressing the root cause, we not only relieve pain but also help prevent future flare-ups.

Why Professional Care Matters

While home remedies and over-the-counter treatments may offer temporary relief, they rarely resolve the underlying cause of heel pain. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we take a comprehensive approach:

1. Precision Diagnosis: We identify the specific cause of your pain and any contributing factors.
   
   
2. Personalized Treatment: We develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your lifestyle, activity level, and severity of symptoms.
   
   
3. Long-term Support: We educate patients on strategies to maintain foot health and prevent recurrence, including footwear recommendations and exercise plans.
   
   

Patients often tell us that this approach makes them feel supported, understood, and confident that they can achieve lasting results. Chronic heel pain is not something you have to live with — professional care can truly change your quality of life.

Real Stories from Norwalk Patients

Consider Samantha, a local teacher who spent long hours on her feet. Her heel pain began gradually, eventually making it difficult to stand for more than a few minutes. After undergoing MLS Laser Therapy combined with custom orthotics and a targeted exercise plan, Samantha regained the ability to teach and stand comfortably — and she did so without surgery.

Robert, a retired firefighter, had been living with chronic heel pain for over a year. He had tried stretching, ice, and pain relievers with little success. Once he received a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan, including MLS Laser Therapy, Robert was able to return to his morning walks and maintain an active lifestyle — something he thought was no longer possible.

These stories highlight how effective a professional, personalized approach can be for chronic heel pain caused by heel spurs.

Preventing Future Heel Pain

After treatment, preventing recurrence is key. Strategies include:

• Wearing supportive footwear: Shoes that cushion the heel and support the arch reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
  
  
• Maintaining a healthy weight: Reducing pressure on the heel can prevent flare-ups.
  
  
• Stretching and strengthening: Regular exercises keep the plantar fascia and calf muscles flexible and strong.
  
  
• Gradual activity progression: Avoid sudden increases in running, walking, or jumping to reduce strain on the heel.
  
  

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we empower patients with tools and knowledge to maintain foot health long-term. This combination of advanced treatment and proactive care is why so many patients find lasting relief and renewed mobility.

Why Choose Fairfield County Foot Surgeons

We understand how disabling chronic heel pain can be. Our team combines advanced technology, evidence-based treatment, and personalized care to help Norwalk residents regain comfort, mobility, and confidence.

When you choose Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, you’re not just getting a procedure — you’re partnering with specialists who care about your overall health and quality of life. From MLS Laser Therapy to custom orthotics, we provide solutions that target the underlying cause of your pain and support long-term foot health.

Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief

Chronic heel pain doesn’t have to control your life. If you’ve been struggling with a heel spur or lingering discomfort that just won’t go away, it’s time to take action. Our team of experts is ready to evaluate your condition, explain your options, and develop a personalized treatment plan that works for you.

Click here to set up a consultation with Fairfield County Foot Surgeons today and start your journey toward pain-free mobility.

Foot pain can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with everyday life. Whether you're someone who enjoys walking the beach at Calf Pasture Park, standing for long shifts, or just trying to keep up with your kids or grandkids, persistent foot pain can stop you in your tracks. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we understand how important it is to find relief that actually works—without resorting to invasive surgery or long-term medications. That’s why we’re proud to offer MLS Laser Therapy for Foot Pain in Norwalk CT, one of the most advanced, noninvasive treatments available today.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

Advanced Technology, Simple Process

MLS stands for Multiwave Locked System. This FDA-cleared laser therapy uses dual wavelengths of light to penetrate deep into soft tissues. The result? Reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and accelerated healing—without any discomfort.

While it may sound like something from the future, this technology is widely used in both sports medicine and podiatric care. It's especially helpful for people dealing with chronic or nagging foot pain who want results without going under the knife.

Conditions MLS Laser Therapy Can Treat

MLS Laser Therapy isn’t just a general pain relief tool—it’s particularly effective for a range of common foot and ankle issues we treat right here in our Norwalk office. These include:

• Plantar fasciitis
  
  
• Achilles tendinitis
  
  
• Neuromas
  
  
• Bursitis
  
  
• Tendon and ligament injuries
  
  
• Heel pain
  
  
• Arthritis
  
  
• Diabetic foot complications
  
  
• Post-surgical healing
  
  

If you’ve struggled with any of the above and feel like you’ve “tried everything,” this may be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

Why Foot Pain is So Common in Norwalk

Understanding Our Local Needs

We see patients from all over Fairfield County, but those in Norwalk often face a unique set of challenges. This area is full of active individuals—nurses, teachers, construction workers, parents, retirees, and weekend warriors. Whether you’re on your feet all day for work or enjoy staying active on local trails, the constant pressure on your feet can take a toll over time.

Plus, cold winters and concrete-heavy environments can increase your risk for inflammation and stress injuries to the feet. That’s why it’s no surprise that chronic foot pain is one of the most common reasons people come to see us.

What to Expect During MLS Laser Treatment

Simple, Fast, and Painless

Many people are nervous about trying a new treatment, especially when lasers are involved. But rest assured, MLS Laser Therapy is completely safe and comfortable. Here's what a typical session at Fairfield County Foot Surgeons looks like:

1. We start with a thorough examination to determine your diagnosis and treatment goals.
   
   
2. You’ll relax while we apply the laser head to the painful or inflamed area.
   
   
3. Each session takes about 10-15 minutes.
   
   
4. There’s no pain—just a mild warming sensation at most.
   
   
5. You can go back to your day immediately—no downtime required.
   
   

Most patients begin to notice relief after just 1-3 sessions. However, for chronic conditions, we usually recommend a series of 6–10 treatments for best results.

How MLS Laser Therapy Works on a Cellular Level

Healing from the Inside Out

MLS Laser Therapy uses two synchronized wavelengths:

• One targets pain by blocking pain signals at the nerve level.
  
  
• The other reduces inflammation and boosts circulation.
  
  

Together, these wavelengths stimulate cellular activity, enhance tissue repair, and speed up recovery—essentially giving your body the boost it needs to heal itself more efficiently.

This makes it ideal for conditions like Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, where inflammation and tissue damage are the root causes of pain.

Who is a Good Candidate?

You might benefit from MLS Laser Therapy if:

• You’ve had persistent foot or ankle pain for more than a few weeks
  
  
• You want to avoid surgery
  
  
• You haven’t found relief with ice, rest, stretching, or orthotics
  
  
• You experience pain from standing, walking, or exercising
  
  
• You have a condition like arthritis or diabetic neuropathy
  
  

We always start with a consultation to determine if this therapy is right for you, based on your unique condition and goals.

Why Norwalk Patients Trust Fairfield County Foot Surgeons

Personalized Care That Works

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we believe in personalized, evidence-based care. Every foot is different, and every patient has different needs and goals.

Dr. Harris Greenberger is double board-certified in foot and ankle surgery, and our clinic is known for blending advanced technology with compassionate care. We don’t just treat symptoms—we treat the root cause, using tools like MLS Laser Therapy to improve long-term outcomes.

We also offer a full range of podiatric services to support your treatment, including:

• Sports injury care
  
  
• Custom orthotics
  
  
• Regenerative medicine
  
  
• On-site diagnostic imaging
  
  

Common Questions About MLS Laser Therapy

Is it safe?

Yes. The MLS Laser is FDA-cleared and backed by clinical research for safety and effectiveness. It’s non-invasive and drug-free, with no known side effects.

Will I need multiple sessions?

Most patients benefit from multiple sessions. Chronic conditions like tendinitis or plantar fasciitis often respond best to a series of treatments over a few weeks.

Will my insurance cover it?

Because MLS Laser Therapy is a newer technology, it’s not always covered by insurance. However, many patients are happy to pay out-of-pocket for this effective, non-invasive treatment that helps them avoid surgery or medications.

Real Patient Success Stories

One of our patients, a teacher from Norwalk, came in with heel pain that had been bothering her for over a year. She had tried inserts, rest, and even cortisone shots with no lasting relief. After just a few MLS Laser Therapy sessions, she reported significant improvement—and within a month, she was back to teaching without pain.

Another patient, a retired postal worker, struggled with chronic Achilles tendinitis. He had stopped walking for exercise due to pain. After six sessions, his pain reduced dramatically, and now he walks a few miles daily again.

Your Path to Pain-Free Living Starts Here

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we’re committed to helping Norwalk residents find long-lasting relief from foot pain—without surgery. Whether you're dealing with Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, or general foot discomfort, MLS Laser Therapy for Foot Pain in Norwalk CT might be your solution.

If you're tired of temporary fixes and ready for real results, we’d love to help.

Click here to set up a consultation
and let’s find a treatment plan that works for you.

Foot and ankle pain can put your life on hold. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we see a lot of patients from Norwalk and surrounding areas who are dealing with stubborn, nagging heel pain. Often, the culprit is Achilles tendinitis, an overuse injury that can turn everyday activities into a real struggle.

If you’re tired of limping around, modifying your routine, or missing out on walks, hikes, or your workout class—this post is for you. Let’s dive into what Achilles tendinitis is, why it happens, and the different treatment options available—including our modern, non-invasive solution: MLS Laser Therapy.

What Is Achilles Tendinitis?

The Basics

Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscles down to the heel bone. It’s the strongest tendon in the body, but it’s also one of the most prone to injury, especially from repetitive stress.

There are two main types:

• Non-insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Affects the middle part of the tendon and is common in younger, active people.
  
  
• Insertional Achilles Tendinitis: Affects the lower portion where the tendon attaches to the heel bone, often in older adults or those with a history of overuse.
  
  

Regardless of the type, the symptoms are similar:

• Pain and stiffness in the back of the heel
  
  
• Swelling
  
  
• Pain that worsens after activity
  
  
• Tenderness to touch
  
  

Why Achilles Tendinitis Happens

Causes and Risk Factors

In our Norwalk clinic, we see Achilles tendinitis across many age groups and activity levels. The most common causes include:

• Overuse from running, jumping, or climbing stairs
  
  
• Sudden increases in activity
  
  
• Poor footwear or worn-out shoes
  
  
• Tight calf muscles
  
  
• Flat feet or high arches
  
  
• Age-related wear and tear
  
  

Often, it’s a combination of lifestyle factors and biomechanics. That’s why we take a full-body approach to diagnosing and treating this condition.

How We Diagnose It

The First Step to Relief

When you visit Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we’ll start with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. From there, we perform:

• A physical exam of the foot and ankle
  
  
• Range of motion tests
  
  
• Palpation to identify tenderness
  
  
• Diagnostic imaging if needed (such as X-rays or ultrasound)
  
  

This helps us rule out other conditions like tendon ruptures or bursitis and ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Achilles Tendinitis

Conservative to Advanced Care

We always start with conservative, non-invasive approaches whenever possible. In fact, most of our patients experience major improvement without surgery. Here's a breakdown of what treatment might look like:

Rest and Activity Modification

You may need to reduce or temporarily stop activities that aggravate the tendon. We’ll help you figure out what’s safe and what needs to change short-term.

Ice and Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes and using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can reduce swelling.

Stretching and Physical Therapy

Targeted calf stretches and strengthening exercises are essential. These help offload the stress placed on the Achilles tendon.

Custom Orthotics

We offer custom-molded orthotics that can improve foot mechanics and reduce strain on the tendon during daily movement.

MLS Laser Therapy

For patients who are still in pain after initial treatment—or those who want faster relief—we may recommend MLS Laser Therapy, one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for soft tissue injuries.

What is MLS Laser Therapy?

Modern Healing Without Surgery

MLS (Multiwave Locked System) Laser Therapy uses two synchronized wavelengths of laser light to penetrate soft tissues deeply and stimulate healing at the cellular level. This laser:

• Reduces inflammation
  
  
• Increases circulation
  
  
• Speeds up tissue repair
  
  
• Blocks pain signals
  
  

It’s completely painless, with no downtime and no side effects. Most patients feel only a gentle warmth during treatment.

We’ve found it particularly helpful for Achilles tendinitis, especially in cases where inflammation and chronic stress are preventing the body from healing on its own.

How MLS Laser Therapy Works for Achilles Tendinitis

At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we use this treatment as part of a comprehensive plan. Here's how it supports recovery:

• Reduces inflammation around the tendon, helping relieve pain quickly.
  
  
• Improves blood flow to the area, which is typically limited in tendons.
  
  
• Accelerates cell repair, meaning quicker healing and tissue regeneration.
  
  
• Eliminates the need for medications, injections, or surgical intervention in many cases.
  
  

Sessions are quick—around 15 minutes—and many patients begin to feel better after 2–3 treatments, though a full plan usually includes 6–10 sessions.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

While most people don’t need surgery, there are rare cases where the tendon has degenerated significantly or formed bone spurs. In these situations, we may discuss minimally invasive surgical options to debride damaged tissue or remove bone growth.

But rest assured—we always try every non-surgical approach first, and only turn to surgery if there are no other options left.

Why Norwalk Residents Turn to Us

Local Expertise, Personalized Care

As one of the most trusted podiatrists in Fairfield County, Dr. Greenberger takes pride in helping our neighbors in Norwalk stay active and pain-free. Here’s why patients choose us:

• Double Board-Certified: Dr. Greenberger is board-certified in foot surgery and reconstructive rearfoot/ankle surgery.
  
  
• Patient-Focused Care: We take time to listen and create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
  
  
• On-Site Diagnostics: No need to travel around for imaging—we do it all right here.
  
  
• Modern Technology: MLS Laser Therapy is just one of many advanced tools we offer.
  
  

Real Results from Real Patients

One patient, a 45-year-old warehouse worker from Norwalk, came to us after months of limping and discomfort. Rest wasn’t helping. Within five MLS Laser sessions, his pain decreased by over 70%. He was able to return to work full-time—without pain.

Another patient, a former marathon runner in her 60s, had chronic Achilles pain for over a year. She had tried physical therapy and shoe inserts without long-term success. After combining orthotics, stretching, and MLS Laser Therapy, she now walks several miles a day without any flare-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to heal?

With conservative care and MLS Laser Therapy, most patients recover from mild to moderate Achilles tendinitis within 4–8 weeks.

Can I exercise during treatment?

That depends on the severity of your symptoms. We’ll guide you on what’s safe and how to modify your activity until healing is complete.

Is this treatment covered by insurance?

MLS Laser Therapy is often not covered by insurance. However, many patients find it well worth the investment to avoid surgery, downtime, and chronic pain.

Don’t Ignore That Heel Pain

Pain in your Achilles tendon isn’t something to brush off. Left untreated, it can progress to tendon degeneration or even rupture—requiring surgery and a long recovery.

If you’re dealing with ongoing heel or calf pain, don’t wait. At Fairfield County Foot Surgeons, we specialize in non-invasive, personalized care—starting with MLS Laser Therapy and other proven solutions to help you get back on your feet.

Click here to set up a consultation
and take the first step toward a pain-free future.