Foot pain

Hello Doc, I have a sharp pain in the back of my right foot, below the aquiles tendon (right above the bottom of the foot), which increases substantially when I push off the right side of the foot.  Any ideas?  Thanks from sunny  Panama :)

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Most likely insertional Achille's tendonitis. This is chronic damage to the tendon where it attaches to the calcaneus, heel bone.  First treatment should include rest, ice, and a heel lift to take the stress off the tendon. Also, NSAID's can be used. The use of cortisone injections is controversial. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy, has had mixed results, but can be very helpful. Physical therapy is also useful at times.  If all else fails, there are surgical options.