1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis or plantar fasciopathy is the most common cause of heel pain. It is caused by degeneration of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is typically caused by overuse and can be exacerbated by standing for long periods of time or running on hard surfaces. The pain is usually felt in the bottom of the heel and can be quite severe.
Treatment: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics or shoes with good arch support can also help. Radial shockwave therapy is often used to increase blood supply to the affected area and repair damaged tissue.
2. Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone. They are usually caused by long-term strain on the muscles and ligaments in the foot. The pain is typically felt at the bottom of the heel and can be quite sharp.
Treatment: Heel spurs are typically treated with offloading – taking all pressure away from the effected area. Orthotic inserts or shoes with good arch support can also help. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
3. Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy is caused by degenerative changes of the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse and can be exacerbated by running on hard surfaces or wearing shoes with poor support.
Treatment: Strengthening is key in Achilles tendinopathy – ensuring the tendon is strong and capable of handling all day to day requirements. Shockwave therapy is used to regenerate the tendon. In some cases, custom foot orthotics can be utilised to reduce the load going through the Achilles tendon. Wearing shoes with good arch support can also help.
4. Bursitis
Bursitis is caused by inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joints. It can be caused by overuse or injury and is typically felt as a sharp pain in the heel.
Treatment: Custom foot orthotics and shockwave therapy can help alleviate the pain of bursitis. In some cases, steroid injections may be necessary.
5. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot, typically caused by overuse. They are typically felt as a dull ache in the heel.
Treatment: Rest is the best treatment for stress fractures. In some cases, a cast or walking boot may be necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors, and it’s important to determine the cause in order to receive the proper treatment. Strength and stretching exercises as well as wearing shoes with good arch support can also help prevent future problems. If your heel pain persists or is severe, it’s important to see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t wait any longer to seek treatment. Visit our website at www.elitefootcare.com.au to make a booking or call us on 5328 3588 to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists. Don’t let heel pain keep you from enjoying your daily activities – let Elite Foot Care Podiatry help you get back on your feet.
