Heel pain can be one of the most debilitating conditions as the heel bone is the largest in the foot and supports the body's weight, absorbing the shock from each step. Heel pain can be extremely painful, preventing individuals from carrying out their daily routine activities, and limiting their ability to go about their daily lives.
If you are struggling with heel pain, Dr. Ed Davis at South Texas Podiatrist is dedicated to personalized care centered around addressing the root of the problem. Dr. Davis has also published a blog about heel pain.
Here are the most common causes of heel pain.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. The plantar fascia connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot. When the foot experiences excessive strain or pressure, the plantar fascia can become strained, irritated or damaged, leading to inflammation and pain.
This strain can be attributed to various factors such as overuse, poor foot support, and lifestyle choices, such as being overweight or wearing poorly fitted shoes. The pain associated with plantar fasciitis is often described as a sharp, stabbing pain that is more severe in the morning or after prolonged sitting or standing. As the condition worsens, the pain can become chronic and persistent, affecting daily activities such as walking, running, exercising, and even simple tasks such as standing or climbing stairs.
Without treatment, chronic plantar fasciitis can become excruciating, leading to heel spurs or even stress fractures, prolonging recovery time and leading to further complications.Treatment needs to focus on eliminating the causes as opposed to treating the symptoms.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that can affect many parts of the body, including the feet. According to numerous studies, RA is one of the leading causes of heel pain. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues around the joints, leading to inflammation in the area. In the foot, this inflammation can occur in the joints, tendons, ligaments, and even the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain.
The pain caused by RA can range from mild to severe and is often described as a dull ache, stiffness, or a burning sensation. The pain is usually worse in the morning or after long periods of rest and can be exacerbated by certain activities such as walking or running. In advanced cases, the inflammation caused by RA can lead to further complications such as bone erosion or joint deformity, making treatment even more challenging.
Proper diagnosis and treatment of RA are essential in managing the symptoms of heel pain caused by RA. Pain management, through medication, physical therapy, exercise, and wearing supportive shoes, can greatly improve quality of life and prevent further damage to the joints and tissues.
3. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a condition that occurs when the nerves in the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passage located in the ankle, become compressed or irritated. The nerves within the tarsal tunnel are responsible for movement and sensation in the foot, and when they are damaged, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including heel pain.
TTS is one of the leading causes of heel pain and is often described as a burning, tingling, or shooting pain that radiates from the heel to the toes. The pain can worsen with activity or after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Additionally, individuals with TTS may experience numbness or weakness in the affected foot or toes. The condition can be exacerbated by various factors, such as trauma, overuse, obesity, and structural abnormalities in the foot. Treatment options for TTS usually include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotics, or in severe cases, surgery may be required. TTS is a manageable condition when diagnosed early and managed effectively.
4. Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. One of the common sites for gout to occur is in the big toe, but it can also affect other joints, including the heel. Gout attacks can cause severe and sudden heel pain that can be debilitating. The pain is often described as a sudden onset of intense pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. The pain caused by gout can last for days or even weeks and can be triggered by various factors such as stress, alcohol consumption, and certain foods. The buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint can damage the joint and surrounding tissues, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and joint deformity.
Treatment for gout often involves medication, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications. In some cases, medication may need to be taken daily to help prevent future attacks. Gout-related heel pain can be managed and treated successfully with proper medical attention, diet and lifestyle changes, and medication.
5. Baxter's Neuritis
Baxter's neuritis or plantar nerve entrapment is a condition that occurs when the plantar nerve, which runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes compressed or irritated, leading to heel pain. The plantar nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the skin of the heel and the arch of the foot. When the nerve is compressed, it can cause a sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the inside of the heel toward back and outside of the heel. This type of pain is often described as burning or numbness, and it may be worse with prolonged periods of standing or walking. Patients may also experience pain at night.
Baxter's neuritis is typically caused by repetitive overuse during activities such as running or jumping, but it can also be attributed to trauma or improper footwear that does not provide adequate support. The goal of treatment of Baxter’s neuritis is desensitization of the nerve. Use of radiofrequency ablation in the office is one of the most successful methods.
If you are experiencing any type of heel pain, it is important to see your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Because heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, it is important to understand the underlying cause in order to treat the condition effectively and prevent further complications.
If you are struggling with heel pain, contact Dr. Ed Davis at South Texas Podiatrist for personalized care, or schedule an appointment directly from our website today!
