Heel Pain

What Is Heel Pain?

The heel is made up of the calcaneus bone and supported by a network of muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues, which together support the weight of the body and stress during movement. Heel pain is a common symptom of excessive strain placed on these structures.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can be caused by abnormal walking style, standing, walking or running on hard surfaces, wearing unsupportive shoes and obesity. Some of the conditions related to heel pain include:

Plantar fasciitis.
Bursitis.
Achilles tendonitis.
Bone spurs.
Calcaneus fracture.
Haglund’s deformity.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Rheumatoid arthritis.
Heel pad rupture.

Symptoms of Heel Pain

Heel pain may be felt under or behind the heel, mostly during walking, jogging and running. It may be sharp and stabbing when you first stand up early in the morning or get up after sitting for long hours. Pain may also be associated with swelling, inflammation, numbness and/or a tingling sensation.

Diagnosis of Heel Pain

The cause of the heel pain is diagnosed by studying your medical history and performing a thorough physical examination of your heel, observing and feeling for signs of swelling and tenderness.

Treatment of Heel Pain

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy.
Customised Orthotics.
Wearing proper supportive shoes with a firm heel counter and shock absorbing sole.
Regular exercise and foot massage.
Rest from activities that cause stress on the heel.
Applying ice packs to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgery may be recommended in cases of heel spurs, bursitis and fracture of the heel bone.