Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis
Out of the 26 bones in a human foot, heel bone is the largest, known as Calcaneus. Researchers say that the stress placed on a foot while walking can be 1.25 times our body weight, and 2.75 times while running. Consequently, heel bone is vulnerable to damage and thus, pain.
You should visit a Chiropodist or Podiatrist if you experience any of the following:
Plantar Fasciitis – One of the most common forms of heel pain. It’s usually associated with a feeling of sharp pain right under the heel. Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a band of ligament that runs from calcaneus to the forefoot area. This condition can make those first steps in the morning really painful. Sometimes it is associated with the formation of Heel spurs, a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone.
Achilles tendonitis – Achilles tendon is the thickest and strongest tendon in the body that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Inflammation in this tendon can result in pain and stiffness behind the heel which can make walking difficult.
Sever’s disease - Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing kids, especially those who are physically active. Kids usually complain of pain behind and just under the heel. This is a painful bone disorder that results in inflammation of the growth plate in the heel and can limit the child from doing the daily activities.
Treatment Options for Heel Pain involve:
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RICE therapy- Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate
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Stretching exercises
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OTC heel pads and anti-inflammatory gels
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Proper footwear
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Shockwave Therapy
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Steroid injection
