Understanding Heel Pain
Heel pain is one of the most common foot concerns podiatrists see.” The condition is so common that many Americans simply regard this as part of their daily lives. For many, heel pain may come and go, but for some it can become a chronic or long-term medical condition making this a real health concern.
Studies show that our heels absorb 1.25 x of our bodyweight when walking and close to three times our bodyweight when running.
Quick Facts on Heel Pain
Heel pain affects 3.6 percent of the population
Wearing flat shoes is the most common culprit for heel pain
Heel pain can be an indication of an underlying medical condition
Pain is usually felt just under the heel or behind it
Rest, wearing properly fitting shoes, ice and using foot support can ease heel pain
People with flat feet or tight calf muscles are highly susceptible to heel pain. A pulled ligament in your arch called the plantar fascia becomes inflamed resulting to tenderness in the area and heel pain. This injury is often the result of placing too much stress on the area as a result of sports activities or simply wearing the wrong type of shoes.
Common causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain may come suddenly as a result of a sport’s injury or gradually due to constant stress on the heels. The most common causes are:
Plantar fasciitis – this is a ligament that runs from the heels to the tip of the foot. When stretched too far, the ligaments become inflamed causing pain and tenderness in tissues around the area.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome – a large nerve located at the back of the feet can be compressed causing pain in the heel area.
Achilles tendonosis – also referred to as tendonitis, is a chronic condition characterized by the progressive degeneration of the Achilles tendon. Years of abuse cause multiple microscopic tears which when not healed properly develops into this medical condition.
Severs disease – is a medical condition often seen in children and teenage athletes. Heel pain is caused by continuous pressure on the developing heel bone due to strenuous physical activities.
Stress fracture – continuous heavy physical activities can gradually build stress on the heels causing a fracture. Low calcium diets or osteoporosis which leaves you with weak bones can trigger fractures especially during running.
Understanding the underlying causes of heel pain could go a long way in reducing or preventing it from happening in the future. Heel pain could be a nagging problem but for those who chronically suffer from heel pain, consulting with a podiatrist is highly recommended.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.