Heel pain is extremely common. One of the reasons it's so common is because there are so many different ways that you can get heel pain. We'll break down some of the most common causes and why they happen.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common types of heel pain people experience. This is caused by the thick band of tissue in your heel called the plantar fascia, developing tiny tears from overuse. These tears cause inflammation and pain, typically in the morning or after long periods of standing. The plantar fascia runs from the heel of your foot to your toes and helps develop your arch. It is important if you have persistent pain and think you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis to contact a doctor and seek treatment.
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles Tendinitis is another very common cause of heel pain. This happens when the band of tissue that runs from your heel to connect with your lower calf muscles, becomes inflamed. Typically seen in runners and people who infrequently play sports like basketball or soccer, it is treatable with relatively simple recovery plan under a doctors care.
Heel Spur
Heel spurs happen when calcium gets deposited on the bottom of your heel bone, usually this happens slowly over the course of months. Heel spurs are also seen with overuse of the plantar fascia. The body deposits the calcium to give your heels more support as a response to the weakened plantar fascia. This type of heel pain is common in athletes or people who jump or run frequently. People suffering from obesity or diabetes are also at risk of developing heel spurs. These painful spurs can cause an abnormal gait and worsen over time if left untreated.
Age
Age is a natural factor when it comes to heel pain, as you age, the pad of your heel naturally can wear down over time and muscle loss can also occur, this can put excess strain on other muscles and joints to compensate and cause pain.
Obesity
Obesity puts excess strain on the feet, causing the padding to potentially wear thin over time. Moderate exercise can help, along with diet but there are underlying conditions aside from exercise and diet that cause obesity. It is important to contact your doctor if you feel like the heel pain you are suffering from is not improving over time.
Improper Footwear
Shoes that just don't fit right, maybe they're too tight, too loose, or just aren't made for you, can cause heel pain. Typically this is because the shoe is not supporting your foot or is not offering padding to your foot like you hoped. Whatever the case, it is important to get shoes that fit your feet and offer the support you are looking for.
Heel pain is one of the most common problems seen by podiatrists. Don't hesitate to contact us today to get your heels back to happy and healthy. Get the care you deserve with Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona, local care you can trust in the valley.