HEEL PAIN
Overview
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This tissue can become irritated or inflamed for a number of reasons. A bruised heel or a Heel Spur can also cause discomfort.
Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia, a band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. Heel pain which is often worst in the morning when getting out of bed or getting up from rest, is the most common symptom. Arch pain may also be present in some individuals.
Heel spurs are abnormal growths of bone on the bottom of the heel bone that may be caused by an abnormal gait, posture or walking, inappropriate shoes, or certain activities. Spurs may cause foot pain while walking or standing. Although many people may have heel spurs, only a few these people will present with foot pain. Heel spurs can occur in people with plantar fasciitis, but they do not cause plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet or high arches are more likely to have foot pain from heel spurs.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are abnormal growths of bone on the bottom of the heel bone that may be caused by an abnormal gait, posture or walking, inappropriate shoes, or certain activities. Spurs may cause foot pain while walking or standing. Although many people may have heel spurs, only a few these people will present with foot pain. Heel spurs can occur in people with plantar fasciitis, but they do not cause plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet or high arches are more likely to have foot pain from heel spurs.
- Treatment for heel spurs include:
- Cutout heel pad
- Custom-made insert (orthotic) worn in the shoe
- Medication recommended by your Physician
- Rest
- Physiotherapy
- Surgery (rarely)
Bruised or Fractured Heel
A bruised heel is a bruise of the fat pad of the heel. It can occur after stepping on a rock or other hard object or jumping / falling from a height.
Treatment for a bruised heel includes:
- rest
- cushioned athletic shoes
- gel or foam heel pads
- Activity modificationA fracture of the heel bone (calcaneus) is usually trauma related. It is most often caused by high impact to the heel — for example, when a person has fallen from a height or been in a car accident. Injuries can range from a bone crack from a new vigorous exercise plan to a shattered bone from a high fall. Heel pain, bruising, swelling, limping, or difficulty walking are the main symptoms.
Treatment or Calcaleus Fractures includes:
- Rest from weight bearing, often with crutches
- Thorough padding of the heel
- Splinting or casting or Robo boot to protect the heel bone
- Medication recommended by your physician
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, you should consult your physician for a proper diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
Your doctor may refer you to OKAPED’s to see a Canadian Certified Pedorthist for Pedorthic management of your foot pain. This may include orthopaedic footwear, shoe selection guidance, orthotics and/or foot related products such as a metatarsal pad. If you know your condition and want to learn about new products and treatments please give us a call.