Heel Pain

What is Heel Pain?

Heel Pain is a very common foot problem in which one experiences pain either under the heel or just behind it. At times, this pain can be severe and may make it difficult for a person to even walk. But it is usually not a health threat and goes on its own. In few cases, when the pain becomes persistent and chronic, then you may require treatment.

What causes Heel Pain?

The main reason of heel pain is Plantar Fasciitis in which there is inflammation of thick band of tissue, plantar fascia (that extends from heel bone to your toes). In this condition, one usually feels pain while taking first steps in the morning and then pain decreases as you walk. However, you may again feel pain after standing for long time or after rising from sitting.

Other causes of heel pain include:

• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Heel bursitis
• Retrocalcaneal bursitis
• Heel bumps
• Bone tumor
• Heel spur
• Osteomyelitis
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sarcoidosis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

How can Heel Pain be treated?

The treatment for heel pain depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

Non-surgical treatments like Stretching exercises, shoe modifications, avoiding walking bare feet, padding, tapping, strapping

• Orthotic devices
• Injection therapy
• Removable walking cast
• Night splint
• Physical therapy
• Surgery