4 Common Causes of Heel Pain

‘Heel Pain’ is used to described pain at heel area obviously, but there are actually many different structures in the area that can be the cause. The ‘Heel’ ranges from the back of the heel/foot to the ‘plantar surface’ being the area underneath the heel. 

Heel pain is a common and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is definitely one of the most common complaints I see in clinic. It can range from a mild discomfort to a severe pain and can impact daily activities such as walking, standing, and even sleeping! These are the most common causes of heel pain that I see as a podiatrist: 

Plantar Fasciitis: 

Plantar Fasciitis can cause pain under the arch of the foot and heel. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, flat feet, high arches, and tight calf muscles or poor footwear.

Achilles Tendonitis:

Achilles Tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon (the strongest tendon in the body!). It causes pain and stiffness at the back of the heel and into the arch. This condition can be caused by overuse, tight calf muscles, foot biomechanics or wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone, and they can cause pain and discomfort. They can be located at the back of the heel into the achilles tendon (called posterior calcaneal spur) or underneath the heel where it meets the arch (called a plantar calacaneal heel spur). Our treatment aim in treating heel spurs usually focusses on reducing the stress and pressure on the area.

Bursitits:

Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones and muscles) become inflamed. It is characterised by pain and swelling in and around the heel. Most commonly this is at the back of the heel called ‘retro-calcaneal bursitis’.

If you’re experiencing heel pain, there are several treatment option we offer here at Rose Bay Podiatry to get you back on your feet. Some of our treatments include:

• custom foot orthotics
• Changes to footwear
• Dry needling
• Stretching and strengthening programs
• Multidisciplinary care

Heel pain is a common and often debilitating condition that affects many people. Understanding the various causes and contributing factors can be the first step towards effective treatment and relief. Our Podiatrists are always here to help you. With the right treatment, we can manage and alleviate your heel pain, and get back to on your feet with confidence.