Anyone can have sore feet after a long day, but if you have chronic heel pain that makes everyday tasks difficult or painful, you need to take control of your healing. Here's a look at some of the most common causes of heel pain and how they can be treated.
What Are Some Common Causes of Heel Pain?
Unfortunately, there are many conditions that can cause heel pain, including:
- Plantar fasciitis. This painful condition occurs when the band of tissue that connects your foot to your heel bone becomes inflamed. It often occurs when the arch in your foot flattens out too much or if you are wearing ill-fitting shoes.
- Achilles tendonitis. When you overuse or stress your Achilles tendon, it can swell and become painful. This can happen if you suddenly increase your activity level or have tight or weak calf muscles.
- Heel spurs. Another cause of heel pain is a bony protrusion on the underside of your heel, known as a heel spur. It can become inflamed if you wear tight shoes or your activity level increases too quickly, resulting in painful symptoms.
- Stress fractures. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of your heel or foot that occur when you overuse them, which can be a problem for runners and other athletes who have to put a lot of force on their feet.
- Bursitis. This condition occurs when you have a fluid-filled sac next to your heel bone that becomes irritated and inflamed. Bursitis can be caused by repetitive motions or shoes that don't fit properly.
Additionally, heel pain can be a symptom of certain diseases like arthritis or diabetes.
What Are Heel Pain Treatment Options?
Heel pain treatment varies, depending on the specific cause of your symptoms., but can include:
- Stretching exercises
- Orthotic devices that provide better arch support
- Physical therapy
- Deep tissue massage
- Anti-inflammatory medication
Additionally, rest and ice can help alleviate the discomfort associated with heel pain, while avoiding activities that put a strain on your feet is essential for aiding recovery.
Heel pain can be a debilitating condition, but you don't have to suffer in silence. With the right treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle, you can start feeling better quickly. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling with heel pain, whether that means consulting a physician or using orthotic devices like insoles and arch supports. Taking control of your healing is an important first step towards living free from foot discomfort.
For more information about heel pain treatment, contact a doctor.
Your feet are more complex than you might realize. You have the tarsal bones in your ankle, the metatarsals that form the top of your foot, and the phalanges that form your toes. Then, there is a complex set of ligaments and tendons that form the joints and attach muscles to the bones of your feet and ankles. With all of these moving parts, it's no wonder people often develop foot pain. Luckily, podiatrists know how to manage that pain. They can identify its source and recommend physical therapy, therapeutic shoes, or even surgery to make you comfortable again. As you keep reading on this website, you'll learn more about their work.