Heel pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. The heel is a weight-bearing bone, and it’s not uncommon for the heel to suffer from pain and soreness. There are many causes of heel pain. You can usually treat heel pain with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. However, in some cases, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. If you’re experiencing heel pain, it’s essential to see a podiatrist experienced in treating heel pain in Scottsdale so that you can get an accurate diagnosis and start on the road to recovery. Here are some common causes of heel pain you should know about.
- Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. The plantar fascia helps to support the foot’s arch, and when it becomes inflamed, the heel can become painful and sore. Plantar fasciitis is often treated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. You may need custom orthotics to help support the foot’s arch in some cases.
- Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are another common cause of heel pain. A heel spur is a bony outgrowth that can form on the heel bone. Heel spurs often result from repetitive stress to the heel, such as running or dancing. You can treat heel spurs with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the heel spur.
- Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is another common cause of heel pain. The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body, and it runs from the heel to the calf muscle. Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. Achilles tendonitis is often treated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, custom orthotics may be prescribed to help support the Achilles tendon.
- Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries are another common cause of heel pain. Overuse injuries occur when the heel is subject to repetitive stress, such as running or dancing. If you have an overuse injury, your doctor may recommend ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, custom orthotics may be prescribed to help support the heel.
- Poor Choice of Footwear
Poor choice of footwear is another common cause of heel pain. If you’re frequently wearing high heels or ill-fitting shoes, you may be putting yourself at risk for heel pain. It’s important to choose footwear that fits well and supports the foot’s arch.
- Bony Abnormalities
Bony abnormalities are another common cause of heel pain. Bony abnormalities can include heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. Bony abnormalities are often treated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, custom orthotics may be prescribed to help support the foot.
- Fractures
Heel fractures are another common cause of heel pain. Heel fractures can occur from a fall or repetitive stress to the heel. Heel fractures are often treated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture.
In summary, heel pain is a common problem caused by a variety of factors. If you’re experiencing heel pain, it’s essential to see a podiatrist experienced in treating heel pain so that you can get an accurate diagnosis and start on the road to recovery.
