Heel Pain

Heel Pain

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), about 40% of all Americans have suffered from heel pain at some point in their lives.

Common causes of Heel Pain include:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Plantar fasciosis
  • Plantar fascia tear
  • Tendonitis
  • Retrocalcaneal spur
  • Stress fractures
  • Neuritis
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Arthritis
  • Fat pad thinning

The most common type of heel pain is a condition called Plantar Fasciitis, which involves inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the plantar fascia (thick band of tissues) that runs along the bottom of the foot (see diagram).

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:

  • Weight gain (especially in pregnancy)
  • Worn-out shoes
  • Walking barefoot
  • Increasing frequency of exercise
  • Standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods without proper shoe support

One of the first signs of plantar fasciitis is the pain felt when taking your first steps in the morning and, depending on the severity, it can last all day long. The pain will continue to worsen the longer the condition remains untreated.

What is Pronation (pronounced pro-nation) and how does it contribute to Heel Pain?

  • Pronation means the feet roll inward when walking. The APMA says excessive Pronation can create an abnormal amount of stretching and pulling on the ligaments and tendons that attach to the bottom back of the heel bone, causing irritation and swelling. It can also contribute to hip, knee and lower back problems.

Heel Pain Treatment Options:

  • NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Custom Orthotics
  • Stretching exercises
  • Taping, heel cups
  • Steroid injections
  • Night splint
  • Surgery

Call our office today, so that Dr. Rosena can professionally assess your heel pain and put together an individualized treatment plan to reduce your suffering and put you on the right path to recovery.