Heel pain that is usually caused by plantar fasciitis may cause significant
discomfort and disability. Heel pain normally occurs on the bottom of the heel
and is often worse when first placing weight on the foot.
Walking abnormalities generally contributes to heel pain as it places too much
stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. Other factors
like injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running, or jumping on hard
surfaces; wearing poorly constructed footwear; or being overweight also
contribute to stress.
Common causes of heel pain are listed below:-
Plantar fasciitis: - It is considered as one of the very common causes of heel
pain. It is an inflammation of the band of fibrous connective tissue (the
plantar fascia) that extends from the heel to the toes. It is common among
athletes who run and jump a lot, and normally occurs when the plantar fascia is
overloaded or overstretched. Damage to the plantar fascia may cause it to swell,
tear or bruise. In this condition resting provides only temporary relief and
stretching exercises will help you to some extent.
Fractures: - Some fracture in the heel bone may cause pain.
Bursitis: - It is an inflammation of a bursa that allows tendons and muscles to
move easily while moving. Bursitis may cause pain in heel.
Posterior calcaneal exostosis: - An abnormal bone growth at the back of the heel
may contribute to heel pain.
Tendonitis: - It is an inflammation of the tendon that is caused by excessive
jumping during sports, by wearing poorly fitted shoes may cause heel pain.
Arthritis: - Arthritis in the ankle or heel joint may cause pain.
Other factors like overweight, weakness of the fat pads may results in heel
pain.
Treatment:-
By stretching the calf muscles several times a day, especially in the morning
and after prolonged sitting.
By taking proper rest, physical therapy, medication and also avoid going
barefoot.
Footwear selection is also very important to consider. So always select shoes
with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height.
By applying ice packs.
By using heel pads and heel cushions.
By loosing extra weight.