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Heel
Pain
Definition
Heel
pain is a common condition in which weight bearing on the heel causes
extreme discomfort.
Cause
There are two different categories of heel pain. The first is caused
by an over-use repetitive stress. Over-use repetitive stress refers
to a soreness resulting from too much impact on a specific area of the
foot. This condition, often referred to as “heel pain syndrome”,
can be caused from shoes with heels that are too low, a thinned out fat
pad in the heel area, or from a sudden increase in activity.
Plantar fasciitis, a very common diagnosis of heel pain, is usually caused
from a biomechancial problem, such as over-pronation (flat feet).
The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the
bottom surface of the foot, from the heel through the midfoot and into
the forefoot. Over-pronation can cause the plantar fascia to be
excessively stretched and inflamed, resulting in pain in the heel and
arch areas of the foot. Often the pain will be most intense first
thing in the morning or after a prolonged period of rest. The pain
will gradually subside as the day progresses.
Treatment
and Prevention
To properly treat heel pain, you must absorb shock, provide cushioning
and elevate the heel to transfer pressure. This can be accomplished
with a heel cup, visco heel cradle, or an orthotic designed with materials
that will absorb shock and shear forces.
When the condition is pronation related (usually plantar fasciitis), an
orthotic with medial posting and good arch support will control the pronation,
and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Footwear selection is also an important criteria when treating heel pain.
Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel
height will be the ideal choice.
If the problem
persists, consult your foot doctor.
Back
to List of Foot Conditions
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