Heel pain can be characterized by soreness or discomfort in your heel. It can occur behind or beneath your heel or within the heel bone itself. Heel pain can be severe, making walking or performing your daily duties difficult. Extreme straining or pressure on your foot is the leading cause of heel pain. The main symptoms of heel pain are stiffness, swelling, tenderness, and pain after standing from a resting position. There are many treatments for heel pain, and your Eazy Foot & Ankle specialist’s method of treatment depends on the cause. Most cases of heel pain are treated through non-surgical techniques.

Causes of heel pain

Achilles tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and longest tendon in your body. It attaches the calf muscle to the heel bone. Overuse injury of this tendon leads to Achilles tendinitis. Achilles tendinitis is common in athletes and basketball players. Tendonitis results in pain, swelling, and stiffness in the back of your heel.

Bursitis

Bursitis happens when fluid-filled sacs known as bursae swell. These sacs are found in your joints and surround the sections where tendons, skin, and muscle tissues meet bones. Bursitis presents as a tender, bruise-like sensation in the back of your heel. Spending extended periods on your feet can lead to bursitis.

Haglund’s deformity

Chronic inflammation and irritation at the back of your heel can result in an enlarged bony pump, known as a pump bump. High-heeled shoes can worsen your pain.

Sever’s disease

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active kids ages eight to fourteen. Children who participate in activities that need a lot of running and jumping are more likely to develop this condition. Increased activities irritate the heel’s growth plate, leading to pain.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of heel pain. It happens when your fascia, a connective tissue that runs along your foot bottom, tears or stretches. You are more likely to develop the problem if you run or jump a lot. Exercising on treadmills or hard surfaces like concrete can trigger plantar fasciitis.

Stress fractures

Repetitive stress, strenuous activities, sports, or heavy manual work can cause injury in your heel bones. Runners are more likely to get stress fractures in the metatarsal foot bones, leading to heel pain. Osteoporosis can also lead to stress fractures.

Treatment for heel pain

Orthodontic devices

Over-the-counter shoe inserts help to reduce pressure on your heel. If you get morning heel pain, wearing a splint at night can provide relief. Wearing supportive shoes for exercises can also reduce heel pain.

Pain relievers

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce heel pain and swelling. You can combine them with ice packs for maximum effects.

Injections

Steroid injections can help ease pain and swelling in your heel. Your doctor can use these injections for plantar fasciitis and bursitis. Doctors should rarely use them for tendon problems.

Stretching exercises

Your doctor can recommend the appropriate exercise for your heel pain. They help to stretch and tighten your tendons and muscles.

Heel pain is a common condition caused by tendonitis, bursitis, injuries, or plantar fasciitis. Medications, orthodontic devices, and exercise are the main treatments for heel pain. Schedule an appointment at Eazy Foot & Ankle for heel pain treatment to relieve your discomfort.