Many runners tend to assume that the heel pain they experience in their feet is due to plantar fasciitis. Although plantar fasciitis may cause heel pain, it isn’t the only condition that can cause it. Dr. Ira Meyers states that many runners she treats come to her office thinking they have plantar fasciitis, “but in fact, they have something else.” Plantar fasciosis, calcaneal stress fractures, nerve entrapments, and muscle cramps can all cause pain in the heel. If your heel pain symptoms do not respond to treatment, you may need to be professionally diagnosed or reevaluated.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Dushack of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Myers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
