Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

There are many causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is not necessarily caused by one injury, but from persistent pounding and stress on the heel. Some major causes of plantar fasciitis include:

Inflammation of the plantar fascia: Plantar fascia is a ligament that connects the heel bone to the tip of the foot. It is quite strong and looks like a bowstring. The plantar fascia becomes inflamed when it is stretched beyond its limits. Inflammation usually happens at the point of attachment to the heel bone. Though in some cases, it may affect the middle part of the foot. Pain often occurs under the foot, especially after resting for a prolonged period. Cramps of the calf muscle may occur if the Achilles tendon becomes tightened.

Heel bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a fibrous sac at the back of the heel filled with fluid. Heel bursitis happens when landing awkwardly on the foot. Pain is felt at the back of the heel, or in some cases, inside the heel. The Achilles tendon may swell. Pain caused by heel bursitis is chronic.

Heel bumps also referred to as pump bumps occur mostly in teenagers. The heel bone of teenagers are not fully mature. If rubbed frequently it can result in excess formation of bone. Mostly occurring in persons with flat feet, heel bumps also occur when teens wear high heeled shoes before the bone is fully mature.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when nerve fibers in the back of the foot becomes entrapped or pinched.

Inflamed heel pad: Inflammation of the heel pad happens when the pad is excessively thin. Heavy footsteps may inflame heel pad.

Stress fractures are caused by strenuous exercise, injury or heavy laborious work. Athletes are most prone to stress fracture. May also be caused by osteoporosis.

Severs disease is very common in children and teenage athletes. Caused by excessive use or trauma in the growth plates of the heel bone. Children between the ages of 7 and 15 are most commonly affected.

Achilles tendinosis known clinically as degenerative tendinopathy. It is caused by the gradual degeneration of the Achilles tendon.

Heel pain may also be caused by:

• Rupture of the Achilles tendon.
• A tear to the plantar fascia.
• Baxter's nerve entrapment.
• Calcaneal cysts.
• A tear of the short flexor tendon.
• Systemic arthritis.
• Bruise to the bone.
• Poor blood circulation.
• Poor posture while walking or running.
• Gout.
• Osteomyelitis.

HOW IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS TREATED?

When you visit a podiatrist near Wyandotte and Southfield you may be placed on conservative treatment for a few months. This will facilitate recovery.

Other treatment options include:

• Administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and pain.
• Physical exercises to stretch the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia, while strengthening the muscles of the lower leg. This stabilizes the heel and ankle.
• Athletic taping to support the foot.
• Orthotics and insoles to support and cushion the arch.

Prolonged cases that do not respond positively to conservative therapy may be treated with extracorporeal shock wave therapy to stimulate healing.  

Surgery

Surgery is a last resort and should be discussed with a podiatrist near Wyandotte and Southfield.

WHEN TO SEE A PODIATRIST?

See a  podiatrist near Wyandotte and Southfield if you experience the following symptoms:

• Severe pain and swelling at the heel.
• Tingling or numbing sensation in the heel.
• Fever.
• Difficulty walking normally.
• Difficulty standing on tiptoe, or bending foot downward.

Make arrangements to see a foot and ankle doctor in Wyandotte or Southfield, Michigan if:

• Heel pain lasts for more than 7 days.
• Pain continues even when not walking or standing.

To prevent heel pain endeavor to reduce the stress that on that region of the body. Some helpful  tips include:

• Wearing shoes when walking on hard ground. Avoid walking barefoot.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity causes stress and pressure on the heels.
• Wear footwear with soles made of stress-absorbing materials.
• Wear shoes that fit properly. Avoid shoes with worn outsoles.