Heel pain is caused by a variety of disorders, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. A typical foot and ankle complaint is a hurting heel. Over time, rest, orthotics, and stretching help to relieve pain. You may develop chronic problems that demand a lengthier recovery if you ignore and don’t treat heel discomfort. Surgery is rarely required for heel pain.
What is heel pain?
A common foot and ankle problem is heel pain. Pain may arise beneath or behind the heel. Heel discomfort can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Achilles or flexor tendonitis/tendonosis.
- Bone spurs.
- Sever’s disease (mostly in children 8-14 years old).
- Bursitis.
- Stress fractures.
- Inflamed tendons.
It’s critical to have a medical evaluation to figure out what’s causing your heel discomfort so you can start on the right treatment pathway.
Walking and taking part in regular activities can be tough when you have heel pain. Nonsurgical treatments can help most painful heel issues, but your body will need time to heal.
Where does heel pain develop?
Anywhere in the heel might cause discomfort, soreness, or tenderness. Heel pain is usually felt:
- Behind the heel.
- Beneath the heel.
- Within the heel bone itself.
What causes pain behind the heel?
There are several issues that might cause pain in the back of the heel:
- Achilles tendinitis: The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone with a fibrous tissue. It is the longest and strongest tendon in the body. Achilles tendonitis is more common in runners and basketball players. The tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse. Tendonitis in the back of the heel produces pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Bursitis: Bursitis is caused by the swelling of fluid-filled sacs called bursae (plural of bursa). These sacs provide cushioning for joints and allow for smooth movement. A tender, bruise-like sensation at the back of the heel is possible. Bursitis usually develops after a prolonged period of standing.
- Haglund’s deformity: An enlarged bony bump (known as a pump bump) can occur at the back of the heel as a result of chronic inflammation and irritation. Higher-heeled shoes, such as pumps, might aggravate the bump and soreness.
- Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysitis): In active children aged 8 to 14, Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain. This condition is more common in children who participate in activities that require a lot of running and leaping. The growth plate in the rear of the heel is irritated by increased athletic activity.
What causes pain beneath the heel?
The following issues might produce pain beneath the heel:
- Bone bruise (contusion): The fat padding beneath the heel can be bruised by stepping on a hard, pointed item. Although you may not see any discoloration, your heel will be sore when you walk. A stress fracture, like Sever’s disease, can produce discomfort all the way down the back of the heel, on the bottom, side, and back.
- Plantar fasciitis: The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. The fascia, a connective tissue that runs down the bottom (plantar surface) of the foot, tears or strains, causing this condition. This painful ailment is more common in people who run and jump a lot. Common irritants include treadmills and harsh surfaces (such as concrete) used for exercise or work.
- Heel spurs: A bony growth (heel spur) can form on the heel bone because of chronic plantar fasciitis. Although some people experience pain from heel spurs, they are usually not painful.
What are the risk factors for heel pain?
Heel pain can be caused by anything that puts a lot of pressure and strain on your foot. The manner you walk (foot mechanics) and the form of your foot (foot structure) are also important considerations.
You might be more prone to heel pain if you:
- Are overweight (have obesity).
- Have arthritis in your feet and ankles, flat feet, or high foot arches.
- In sports or for exercise, you run or jump a lot.
- Stand for long periods of time, especially on concrete floors.
- Wear shoes that aren’t correctly fitting and lack arch support and/or cushion.
How can I prevent heel pain?
It’s critical to keep your foot and heel tendons supple in order to avoid or reduce heel pain. You should stretch frequently and wear shoes that are properly fitting and supportive. Heel discomfort is more common in runners. Running injuries can be avoided by covering less distances and running on softer surfaces.
For detailed advice on your Heel Pain & Injury, please contact Simply Align Rehab Physio in Scarborough/Toronto at simplyalignrehab.com, or phone or text us at (416) 628-8554 for your Physiotherapy or Chiropractor needs in Toronto.