While heel pain can sometimes occur due to systemic illnesses such as gout and arthritis, it usually is caused by a condition isolated to the feet. The most common types of local heel pain are: plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Sever’s disease, bursitis, trapped nerves, and local bruises. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation in the long, fibrous tissue band that connects the heel and toes along the bottom of the foot. Heel spurs are calcium deposits on the heel bone. Because they occur where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone, they are sometimes masked by, or occur in tandem with, plantar fasciitis. Sever’s disease is an inflammation of the growth plate at the back of the heel that occurs in growing children. Bursitis is inflammation in the fluid-filled sac (bursa) which cushions the area at the back of the ankle where the heel meets the Achilles tendon. Trapped nerves occur when there is compression on various nerves leading to the heel. Common bruises and bumps to the heel can also cause pain. If you have heel pain, make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the root of the problem and create an effective treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM of Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Missoula, MT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.