Table of Contents
What Is Heel Pain?
Heel pain is a physical discomfort located at the heel or under the foot. It can lead to swelling and soreness. A sore heel typically heals on its own with minimal precautions; however, if ignored, or if the patient continues activities that exacerbate the pain, it can lead to severe complications and discomfort. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Overuse, strain, and injury can cause inflammation in this tissue, which can be painful. This condition is called plantar fasciitis.
What Are the Causes of Heel Pain?
The following are the most common causes of heel pain that should be avoided as much as possible:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Osteochondroses
- Arthritis
Risk Factors
While anyone can suffer from heel pain, certain groups appear to be at increased risk, including:
- Middle-aged men and women
- Physically active individuals
- People who are overweight or obese
- People who stand for long periods
- Children aged between eight and 13 years (particularly boys)
- Women during pregnancy
Diagnosis of Heel Pain
The diagnosis of heel pain depends on the underlying condition and is performed using a variety of tests, including:
- Medical history
- Physical examination, including examination of the joints and muscles of the foot and leg
- X-rays
Treatment for Heel Pain
Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include:
- Rest from activities that stress the heel (such as running and jumping)
- Ice packs
- Regular foot massages, focusing on the arch of the foot
- Professional strapping
- A splint worn at night
- Flexibility exercises
- Ultrasound therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications (topical or oral)
Prevention of Heel Pain
You can reduce the risk of heel pain in many ways, including:
- Wear properly fitting shoes with firm fastenings, such as laces.
- Choose shoes with shock-absorbent soles and supportive heels.
- Repair or discard any shoes with worn heels.
- Always warm up and cool down when exercising or playing sports—include plenty of slow, sustained stretches.
- If necessary, your podiatrist can demonstrate how to tape or strap your feet to help support the muscles and ligaments.
Physiotherapy Management
The best exercises for plantar fasciitis and heel pain may vary by individual, but often include various foot and calf stretches. These can help relieve pain, improve muscle strength, and promote flexibility in the foot.
Home Care
To manage heel pain at home, you can:
- Use crutches to take weight off your feet.
- Rest as much as possible for at least a week.
- Apply ice to the painful area.
- Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief.
- Wear well-fitted, comfortable, and supportive shoes.
- Use heel cups, felt pads in the heel area, or shoe inserts.
- Wear night splints.
