Heel pain is one of the most common conditions treated by podiatrists . It is often a message from the body that something is in need of medical attention. Regular heel pain should not be overlooked, if you are experiencing heel pain consult a podiatrist.
What may cause heel pain?
It is thought that higher arches or flatter arches, or feet that role in too much, are causes of heel pain. This can place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues attached to it.
The stress may also result from injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running, jumping on hard surfaces, wearing poorly constructed footwear or being significantly overweight. Certain diseases can also contribute to heel pain.
What is heel spur?
One factor associated with heel pain is heel spur, bony growth under the heel bone. There are no visible features on the heel, but a deep , painful spit can be found in or area around the middle of the sole of the heel.
Heel spurs result from strain on the muscles of the foot. This may result from biomechanical imbalance , a condition occurring in many people. Book a biomechanical assessment at Every Step Podiatry.
What is Plantar fasciitis?
Both heel pain and heel spurs are frequently associated with an inflammation of the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot. The inflammation of this arch area is called plantar fasciitis.
The inflammation may be aggravated by shoes that lack appropriate support. especially in the arch area, and by the chronic irritation that sometimes accompanies an athletic lifestyle. Some other causes may include;
- Rolling of the feet when walking
- An inflamed bursa (bursitis); small irritated sack of fluid at the back or under heel.
- A neuroma (nerve growth)
- Other soft-tissue growths
- Heel bumps
- Bruises or stress fractures to the heel bones.
Treatment may involve, exercise, taping, custom orthoses specifically made to your needs, specific supportive footwear recommendations, shockwave therapy.
Your recovery will depend on the cause of your heel pain and your individual health. If you are suffering from heel pain, book a biomechanical assessment with a podiatrist.
Every Step Podiatry - Sydney Podiatrist 