What Causes of Heel Pain?
Heel pain is usually the result of repetitive stress and pounding of the heel. The pain itself usually occurs under the heel or just behind it. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, the condition is also known as heel spur syndrome. Some other causes of heel pain include:
- Heel bursitis
- Heel bumps
- Tarsal tunnel
- Chronic inflammation of the heel
- Stress fracture
- Achilles tendonosis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Bone bruise
- Bone cyst
- Gout
- Neuroma
- Problems with your gait
- Rheumatoid arthritis
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis causes inflammation which irritates the ligament. When the ligament is irritated it can cause swelling and heel pain. The irritation is typically the result of structural defects within the foot itself or wearing shoes which don’t provide support resulting in a strain on the plantar fascia. Many individuals with the condition have a bony spur present on the heel bone as well which can also call heel pain.
How is Heel Pain Addressed?
Treatment will usually involve physical therapy and more conservative measures to relieve the pain in the heel. Options will include:
- Avoid being barefoot- this can relieve pressure and strain on the ligament
- Icing- employ an ice pack for 20 minutes 3-4 times a day to reduce swelling
- Shoe modifications- wear shoes with optimal arch support and a somewhat raised heel
- Limit specific activities- minimize activities which can strain the fascia
- Medications- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can minimize swelling and pain as well
- Padding- pads in shoes and straps can support the ankle can lessen strain
- Orthotic devices- custom devices can correct structural issues
- Splints- wearing a splint while sleeping can maintain a stretch over the course of the night and lessen morning pain
- Walking cast- a cast can keep the foot immobile for a while to allow it heal
- Injections- corticosteroid injections can reduce pain and inflammation
Surgery may be necessary to repair a bony growth if one is present. It is best to consult with a podiatrist on the method of treatment that would suit your specific heel pain.
Another option is percutaneous microtenotomy by, Tenex an ultrasonic treatment option that removes the source of the pain, the damaged tissue, and helps stimulate a healing response.
