Heel pain is a very common disorder. While stress fractures, bursitis, fat pad atrophy, tarsal tunnel syndrome, sever’s disease, and bone spurs can cause heel pain, its most common source is plantar fasciitis. When the plantar fascia—the fibrous connective tissue on the bottom of the feet that links the heel with the forefoot—becomes torn or damaged, plantar fasciitis occurs. This condition can be caused by sudden trauma, or prolonged wear and tear, that affects the plantar fascia. With plantar fasciitis, the heel can become thickened, inflamed, and painful. People who are more at risk of damaging the plantar fascia include those who are obese, stand for prolonged periods of time, and wear flat-soled or un-supportive shoes. If you are experiencing heel pain, contact a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis and treatment appropriate for your condition.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Alan J. Spector of Shore Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Point Pleasant, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.