The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur.

Plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which this plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause considerable amount of suffering.

Long standing inflammation causes the deposition of calcium at the point where the plantar fascia inserts into the heel. This results in the appearance of a sharp thorn like heel spur on x-ray.

The heel spur is usually asymptomatic (not painful) the pain arises from the inflammation of the plantar fascia.

 

APPEARANCE OF A HEEL SPUR

Sometimes there will be no visible signs of plantar fasciitis, swelling and redness are usually minimal.

SYMPTOMS OF PLANTAR FASCIITIS

The pain of Plantar Fasciitis is classical. People describe intense pain in the bottom of the heel when they try to get up out of bed in the morning or try to stand after a period of rest.  This post rest pain is a sharp pain that seems to subside after being on the feet for 5-10 minutes.

It may severely limit activities.

It is also aggravated by prolonged weight bearing & thin soled shoes.

CAUSES OF HEEL PAIN

Excessive load on the foot from obesity is a major cause of plantar fasciitis.

The plantar fascia is not able to withstand excessive pressure. Therefore sudden increases in weight, such as pregnancy can also lead to plantar fasciitis.

A sudden increase in walking or a sporting activity can also be a contributing factor. A classical example is a person returning to the gym after a period of time and trying to take up from where they left off.

Excessive flattening of the arch on weight bearing.

Biomechanical problems (walking abnormalities) is also a major cause of plantar fasciitis.

HEEL PAIN TREATMENT

Treatment must be directed at realigning the foot while you are walking. This will be achieved through the use of orthotics. Orthotics will help correct excessive rolling in or rolling out of the feet.

Application of ice to the heel area daily is also required to control inflammation

Wearing good quality shoes with supportive heel counters. It is also essential to see a Podiatrist so they can determine which shoe is best suited to your foot type.

A silicone heel cup and other silicone devices can help cure heel pain.

A shoe with a slight heel may relieve pressure from the painful symptoms.

Over the counter medications such as anti-inflammatorys may be of benefit.