Conditions That Cause Heel Pain
Heel pain can stem from various conditions with unique causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding these can be the first step towards relief. Let's delve into some of the most prevalent heel pain conditions:
Plantar Fasciitis
Often identified by a stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot near the heel, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. It's widespread in runners, overweight individuals, and those wearing shoes with inadequate support. Strictly speaking, plantar fasciitis is less than 3 months old i.e. an acute injury, whereas plantar fasciosis is for more chronic longer term issues.
Achilles Tendinitis
This condition involves the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects your calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone. It's often a result of repetitive stress to the tendon, affecting athletes and those who are less active.
Heel Bursitis
Bursitis of the heel is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac located at either the back of or underneath the heel. It can cause pain in the back or deep underneath the heel. This condition can mimic Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis, and can be due to landing awkwardly or hard on the heels.
Heel Spurs
These are growths of bone on the underside, front of the heel bone. Heel spurs can occur without pain, but they can be associated with chronic pain if inflammation develops at the point of the spur formation. They are frequently associated with plantar fasciitis.
Sever's Disease
Also known as calcaneal apophysitis, it's a bone disorder that results from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It's a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, particularly physically active ones.
Remember, if you're experiencing heel pain, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Our HCPC-registered and qualified podiatrists are here to help you understand your heel pain and guide you towards the path of recovery. Don't let heel pain hold you back—seek the professional advice and care you deserve.
Need More Information? Visit our clinic or contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the care and support you need to get back on your feet without pain
Commonn questions around heel pain conditions
Why do you have heel pain?
There are 26 bones in your foot and ankle, 33 joints, and over 100 tendons. The heel is the largest bone in your foot. Your foot and ankle are complex structures that provide support and movement for your body.
If you have heel pain, it may be because you have used or injured your heel. This can range from being a mild discomfort to disabling. If home remedies don't help ease the pain, you may need to seek the advice of an HCPC registered and qualified podiatrist like ourselves.
Alternatively, you can look at our handy online guide to try to diagnose your heel pain.
14 must know facts about plantar fasciitis and heel pain
If you haven't been able to diagnose your heel pain using our online guide, we also have blogs that go into further detail. Check out our blog called "14 must know facts about plantar fasciitis and heel pain" or give us a call. We will be happy to analyse and diagnose your heel pain and advise you on the best course of treatment to get you back to feeling great.
Heel Pain FAQs
Mythbusting 101 for Heel Pain
You can also watch my video to learn more about plantar fasciitis and heel pain!