Common Causes Of Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. This is due to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a strong fibrous tissue found underneath the foot and connects to the calcaneus or heel bone to the metatarsals of the feet. 

If you experience heel pain when you take your first steps in the morning of after standing for long periods of time, then probably plantar fasciitis is the most probable cause. Plantar fasciitis also causes arch pain.

Heel spurs which are abnormal growths or protrusions of bone on the bottom of the heel bone, may cause foot pain when walking or standing. Heel spurs are commonly seen in people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, but heel spurs do not cause plantar fasciitis. If you have high arches or flat feet, then most probably you are suffering from heel spurs.

A fracture of the heel bone is most often caused by high impacts to the heel, typically a fall from high ground. Pain, swelling, bruising, limping and difficulty walking are all signs of a fractured foot.

A stone bruise is due to bruising of the fat pad of the heel. This occurs after stepping on a pebble or a small stone or any hard object. The heel may not change color  after the bruise. Pain reduces and disappears with rest.

Heel Pain Treatments

For Plantar fasciitis: RICE method

1.       Rest

2.       Ice

3.       Compress

4.       Elevate

For heel spurs:

1.       Custom made inserts

2.       Cut out heel pads

3.       Pain relievers

4.       Rest

5.       Surgery

For heel fractures

1.       Rest

2.       Padding or casting of the heel

3.       Pain relievers

4.       Surgery