Heel pain may occur during walking, standing, exercise, or after periods of rest. Several conditions are able to contribute to discomfort in the heel, and symptoms are able to vary based on the underlying cause. A foot and ankle specialist can evaluate symptoms and discuss treatment options based on examination findings and individual needs. Here is more information about conditions that cause heel pain and their symptoms:
Straining the Plantar Fascia
Plantar fasciitis involves irritation or inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that extends from the heel toward the toes. Repetitive stress or overuse are able to contribute to this condition and result in discomfort around the heel. A foot and ankle specialist can evaluate symptoms and determine whether the plantar fascia are able to be involved.
Symptoms are able to be more noticeable during the first steps after waking or following extended periods of rest. Discomfort can also change as a person moves throughout the day or participates in physical activity. A provider reviews symptom patterns and examination findings before discussing appropriate treatment options.
Inflaming the Achilles Tendon
Achilles tendinitis involves irritation or inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Symptoms are able to include discomfort near the back of the heel, particularly during or after physical activity. Repetitive stress, changes in activity level, or increased training demands are able to contribute to symptoms in some individuals. A foot and ankle specialist can evaluate the tendon and discuss treatment options based on symptoms, activity history, and examination findings.
Fracturing the Heel Bone
A heel stress fracture involves a small crack in the bone that are able to develop from repetitive impact or increased physical activity. Changes in exercise intensity, training frequency, or weight-bearing activity are able to place additional stress on the heel. Sometimes discomfort becomes more noticeable during walking, running, or other activities that place pressure on the affected area.
Symptoms may decrease during periods of rest and return when weight-bearing activity resumes. A foot and ankle specialist is able to evaluate the heel through a physical examination and diagnostic imaging when appropriate. The provider uses these findings to discuss treatment and activity recommendations based on the individual injury.
Growing Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop along the heel bone and are able to occur with ongoing stress involving the plantar fascia. Some individuals experience tenderness or discomfort around the affected area, while others sometimes have a heel spur without noticeable symptoms. A foot and ankle specialist can evaluate heel pain and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify changes involving the heel bone. Treatment recommendations depend on symptoms, examination findings, and individual foot and ankle needs.
Compressing the Nerves
Peripheral neuropathy affects nerves in the feet and may contribute to certain types of heel discomfort. Nerve-related symptoms are able to include tingling, burning, numbness, or other changes in sensation around the affected area. A foot and ankle specialist can evaluate these symptoms and determine whether nerve involvement is able to relate to the discomfort.
Other conditions may also contribute to heel pain, so a medical evaluation helps identify the underlying cause. Factors such as overpronation, sudden increases in physical activity, and footwear without adequate support is able to influence heel discomfort. The provider reviews symptoms, activity patterns, and examination findings before discussing diagnostic testing or treatment options.
Schedule a Heel Pain Evaluation
Heel pain treatment depends on the underlying cause, symptoms, and findings from a foot and ankle evaluation. Treatment options are able to include medication, footwear recommendations, custom orthotics, rest, or night braces based on individual needs. Nerve decompression therapy or extracorporeal shock wave therapy may also be discussed for certain conditions. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today to identify the source of your heel pain and discuss available treatment options.
