What Causes Heel Pain?

What Causes Heel Pain?

Heel pain is a problem of the foot where the people involved are victims of negative symptoms. Heel pain may have various effects on daily activities and general quality of life whether it is an aching feeling or a sharp one. Learning about its causes and possible ways of their resolution can be the initial steps to relief. This is additional information on the heel pain and reasons to go to a foot doctor.

What is Heel Pain?

Anything that causes discomfort when touched at the back*, or bottom of the heel is considered to be a heel pain. It can be mild and cause sorrow but may be severe so that it is painful and walking or standing becomes a challenge. This disorder is not a certain injury but a symptom of the deeper problems. It is good to find out the cause of the problem with the assistance of a foot doctor so that the most effective course of action can be established.

The Causes of Heel Pain?

The causes of heel pain may be many and have their provocative factors. Some of the reasons are as follows:

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick piece of tissue that runs on the soles of the feet (plantar fascia). This will cause a severe pain on the heel especially when the patient has slept long or taken the initial steps in the morning.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is inflammation of tendons around the heel mainly the Achilles tendon. It is a condition that is mostly brought about by repetitive stress or overuse activities such as running or by poor quality shoes.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are calcium deposits, which grow beneath the heel bone. These are bony growths that become irksome to the nearby tissues causing pain when a person is walking or standing on foot over a long period of time.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures develop when the heel bone develops small cracks as a result of too much/repeated force. This is a feasible condition particularly among athletes and those who engage in high impact sports.

What are the Options of Treatment?

Heel pain can only be efficiently treated depending on their cause. You have a choice of remedies like those done at home or seeking the services of a professional medical practitioner.

  • Rest and Ice: Mild pain and inflammation can be relieved through reduction of the level of physical activity and using ice treatments on the affected area.
  • Stretching Exercise: Localized stretching exercises will tighten and enhance flexibility of foot muscles and tendons.
  • Supportive Shoes: Shoes that are good-fitting and have arch support and cushioning can help to alleviate the problem and make it less worse.
  • Orthotics: Considered inserts or pads to put in the heel and redistribute the pressure to ease the pressure on the heel.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can also make some exercises and treatments according to the condition you have.

The Reasons Why You Need to Visit a Foot Doctor.

Whereas there are several cases of heel pain that are resolved by the use of rest and home treatments, others might need medical consultations. By administering the symptoms, a foot doctor may conduct a diagnostic process, as well as offer well-defined diagnosis. This treatment may limit the severity of the condition as early intervention is possible and the treatment can provide individualised solutions based on your needs. In the case the pain does not disappear, nor worsen, nor considerably affect everyday activities, it is optimal to visit a specialist.

Know More Today

Heel pain may restrict the life you live, but not necessarily. The most important thing is to identify the cause of the pain whether it is plantar fasciitis or tendonitis or any other things. Once identified the most crucial thing is to get knowledge about what to do to relieve it. Contact a reliable foot doctor to know more about successful treatments and professional care. Today make a step toward a better foot health.