Heel Pain

Heel Pain

Heel Pain is a general term describing a common complaint of persistent foot problems that people suffer.  Heel pain has different origins, some being musculoskeletal, bony contusions, neuritis or connective tissue.  Causes of this type of pain can signify one of many conditions.  Plantar fasciitis causes pain due to chronic inflammation of the connective tissue that extends from the toes to the heel bone.  Other common causes of heel pain are stress fractures, inflammation of the Achilles tendon, arthritis, bursitis, tumors, heel spurs, or nerve irritation.  Regardless of which problem is causing heel pain, it can be debilitating and requires a diagnosis of the underlying condition and treatment.

Diagnosing Heel Pain

Sometimes heel pain could be the symptom of a serious medical condition, or it could be any of the previously mentioned conditions.  To be properly diagnosed your podiatrist will ask you some questions about your pain, such as the kinds of shoes worn and when the pain is worse and will do a physical examination.  Tests, such as x-rays or other forms of imaging, such as MRIs or CT scans, will be ordered to determine what is causing the heel pain, so the podiatrist can then create effective treatment plan.

Treating Heel Pain

Treating this pain will depend on what is found in the diagnosis.  Sometimes over-the-counter treatments are tried before medical care is sought.  Over-the-counter heel pads and anti-inflammatory medications may be used in early treatment.  The initial treatments suggested by your podiatrist might include padding and strapping of the foot, corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.  Patients should avoid walking barefoot, wear shoes with arch support and heel cushions, and limit extended physical activity until a full treatment plan is recommended.