Heel Pain- Why our heels hurt & what are treatment options?
Heel pain is a common issue affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles. Whether sharp, dull, or aching, heel pain can significantly disrupt daily activities and lower quality of life.
Identifying the cause and exploring treatment options is key to effective relief. This blog will explore why our heels hurt and the various strategies to alleviate this common problem.
Heel Pain Causes
Plantar fasciitis is one of the common sources of heel pain, and is marked by pain primarily in the heel region. This condition often manifests as sharp pain, especially noticeable in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting.
The pain is due to inflammation, thickening, or microtears in the plantar fascia—a band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot.
Achilles tendinosis involves pain at the back of the heel. Heel pain can result from chronic strain on the Achilles tendon, which links the calf muscles to the heel.
This strain may cause the tendon to thicken or become inflamed, resulting in pain that intensifies with activities such as walking or running.
Nerve issues in the foot can lead to tingling, burning, or electric-shock-like pain.
Conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, occur when nerves are compressed or irritated. Neuropathic pain may also result from trauma, diabetes, alcohol use, or spinal issues like sciatica.
Heel pain when walking can result from injuries sustained during sports, accidents, or falls. Ligament sprains or tears frequently lead to persistent pain because of their slow healing process, which can be worsened by ongoing weight-bearing and movement
Although less common, arthritis can impact the foot and ankle, especially in older adults, those with previous injuries, or obese individuals.
Degenerative changes or arthritis can lead to chronic pain and discomfort in the affected joints.
Foot structural issues such as flat feet, high arches, or bony irregularities (e.g., bunions or spurs) can contribute to frequent and recurring heel pain. These abnormalities often disrupt standard foot mechanics and increase stress on the heel.
High Uric acid levels can cause gout, which affects the big toe and results in heel pain. The condition leads to sudden, intense pain and swelling in the affected joint.
Additional causes of sharp pain in the back of the heel may include:
Tumours: Tumours can be rare but possibly the reason for localised pain.
Infections: Pain and inflammation can also result from bacterial or fungal infections.
Vascular Issues: Problems with blood vessels can affect foot health.
Ulcers: Painful sores on the foot can lead to significant discomfort and heel bruise.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune condition can affect the foot joints.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs cushion joints, can lead to heel pain.
Treatment Options for Heel Pain
1- Rest and Ice: Resting the affected foot and applying ice are simple yet effective treatments for heel pain.
Resting helps reduce inflammation and prevents further strain on the heel, while ice helps decrease swelling and alleviate pain. Applying ice for 15-20 minutes multiple times a day can offer considerable relief.
2- Footwear Adjustments: Wearing supportive and well-fitted footwear is crucial in managing heel pain. Wear shoes with a very good arch support and cushioning. Avoiding high heels and choosing shoes with a good fit can prevent pain exacerbation.
3- Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts provide additional support and cushioning for the feet. They help redistribute pressure, alleviate strain on the plantar fascia, and correct faulty foot mechanics. Consulting a specialist for personalised orthotic recommendations can be beneficial in managing chronic heel pain.
4- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching the Achilles and plantar fascia can aid in relieving pain and enhancing flexibility. Calf and plantar fascia stretches can be performed daily to reduce tension and prevent future pain episodes. Strengthening exercises can also enhance foot mechanics and support.
5- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can effectively treat heel pain, especially when combined with other interventions.
To manage heel pain, a physical therapist can create a personalised exercise programme that includes stretching, strengthening, and gait training. Therapy may also include modalities like ultrasound or manual therapy to promote healing.
6—Medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs, including ibuprofen or naproxen, can temporarily relieve pain and inflammation. If the pain persists, a healthcare provider may recommend stronger medications or corticosteroid injections to manage inflammation and ease discomfort.
7- Shockwave Therapy: Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive procedure that employs acoustic waves to promote healing in damaged tissues. It’s commonly applied to chronic heel pain conditions like plantar fasciitis, helping to repair tissues and reduce pain.
8- Surgery: If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be considered as an alternative.
Surgical procedures for heel pain can include releasing the plantar fascia, removing heel spurs, or repairing damaged tissues.
These surgical procedures are usually reserved for severe cases and are only considered once all other treatment options have been fully explored.
By understanding the causes and available treatments for heel pain, you can take control of your condition and enhance your quality of life. Don’t let heel pain keep you from living fully—seek the support you need and start your journey to relief today.
Contact Dr KP Meda for Expert Care
If you’re struggling with heel pain and need expert care, Dr KP Meda is here to help. As a top Chiropodist and Foot and Ankle Specialist in Dubai, Dr KP Meda provides thorough evaluations and tailored treatment plans to effectively treat your heel pain.
Book your consultation with Dr KP Meda now and begin your path to recovery and relief.
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