What causes heel pain?

‍What causes heel pain?

Heel pain is generally thought to be the result of too much stress on the heel bone and the surrounding tissues. Stress may also be due to injury, running or jumping on hard surfaces, poorly suited footwear and/or being overweight.  It is a common condition and can occur in those with high arched or ‘flat feet’.

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Heel Spur

A heel spur is a bony growth under the heel bone. It isn’t visible but a deep painful spot can be found in or around the sole of the heel. Heel spurs result from strain on the muscles of the foot; usually from biomechanical imbalances. Approximately 10 percent of the population may have heel spurs without pain.

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Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain and heel spurs are frequently associated with inflammation of the plantar fascia (a long band of connective tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot). Pain is usually due to inflammation rather than the spur itself

Other causes of heel pain

·       Bursitis: inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid filled sack at the back of the heel)

·       Heel bumps or ‘Pump bumps’: a bony enlargement at the rear of the heel

·       Nerve impingement: nerves can be entrapped the surrounding structures causing pain

·       Bruises or fractures to the heel bone

Treatment

Treatment for heel pain may be as simple as taping and footwear changes to orthoses. The aim of treatment is to decrease the amount of stress on the foot. These treatments are usually effective and most patients should notice an improvement within 6-8weeks. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to resolve the underlying cause.

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If you have any further questions about how we can help with Foot related issues, head over to our Contact Us page, or book in now to make an appointment and start improving your foot pain today.

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