The human foot is an intricate structure comprised of bones, joints, and more than 100 tendons, ligaments, and muscles. The heel bone – the largest of the 26 bones in the foot - tends to be vulnerable to stress and injuries caused by prolonged overuse. For those residing in the greater Indianapolis area, Dr. Todd Mann and Dr. Kyle Gleeson of AHP Foot & Wound Care Specialists provide professional podiatry treatment options for managing heel pain that may disrupt one’s daily routine.
What Causes Heel Pain?
Heel pain often happens due to excessive stress placed on the heel bone or nearby soft tissue. However, various issues noted below may also create pain in your heel.
- Tendinitis
The Achilles tendon, which inserts into the back of the heel bone, can become inflamed or tight. Tendinitis often results from overuse, which causes inflammation and pain.
- Plantar Fasciitis
When the plantar fascia, the soft tissue along the bottom of one’s foot, becomes inflamed, it may pull on the heel.
- Heel Spurs
These refer to bony growths on the back of the heel bone. Heel spurs may develop in response to the prolonged inflammation from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
- Over-Pronation
The way your foot flexes and absorbs motion when walking is known as pronation. Excessive pronation causes undue stress and stretches ligaments and tendons.
- Nerve Entrapment
Any ankle or foot nerves that become irritated or compressed may cause heel pain.
- Stress Fracture
This refers to a small bone crack caused by repetitive overuse. This type of heel pain worsens when bearing weight. Those participating in high-impact sports tend to be more vulnerable to heel bone stress fractures.
The following medical issues may contribute to heel pain –
- Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
- Sever’s Disease.
- Bursitis, to name.
Finding Relief for Heel Pain
Depending on when the issue is identified, a podiatrist can create an appropriate treatment plan that includes -
- Anti-inflammatory oral/injectable medications.
- Functional shoe recommendations.
- Therapeutic exercise.
- Custom orthotics for shoes.
- Foot-taping for additional support.
Surgical intervention is usually an option for advanced cases but is unnecessary for most individuals.
Contact Indianapolis Podiatrists Offering In-Office or At-Home Podiatric Services
For additional information, contact Dr. Mann, Dr. Gleeson, or a staff association of AHP Foot & Wound Care Specialists at 317-218-4095 or online.