Heel Pain Specialist

What causes heel pain?

There are a few conditions that may cause heel pain, including: 

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia — the thick strap of connective tissue that spans the bottom of your foot — develops small tears and serious inflammation. This condition leads to sharp heel pain that typically starts at the bottom of your heel bone. 

Plantar fasciitis typically develops when excessive pressure is placed on your plantar fascia over a prolonged period. Athletes, especially distance runners, are prone to plantar fasciitis. 

People who have difficulty losing weight and people who stand for long periods may also develop plantar fasciitis. In addition, you may have an increased risk of plantar fasciitis if you have flat feet, unusually high arches, or other foot deformities.

Achilles tendon injuries

Your achilles tendon covers the area from the bottom of your calf muscle to the heel bone. Two main injuries can occur in this tendon to cause heel pain, including achilles tendonitis and achilles tendon ruptures. 

Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation in the tendon, while achilles tendon ruptures involve a tear in the tendon. Achilles tendon injuries can cause severe pain in the back of your leg and heel. 

Achilles tendon injuries are typically sports injuries that are most common among athletes who rapidly increase their training intensity or duration. 

The Achilles tendon may also weaken with age, which can increase your risk of injury.

Heel spurs 

Heel spurs are bony hooks on the bottom of your heel. They frequently develop along with plantar fasciitis. Although heel spurs sound painful, they’re rarely the cause of heel pain. If they occur alongside plantar fasciitis, the plantar fasciitis is usually the source of the heel pain.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

Heel pain diagnosis generally includes a medical history review and foot exam. You may also need imaging tests like X-rays or an ultrasound.

How is heel pain treated?

Heel pain treatment initially focuses on conservative, non-surgical strategies. These treatments may include:

• Custom orthotics
• Bracing or splinting
• Physical therapy
• Oral anti-inflammatory medication
• Ice packs
• Cortisone injections

If your heel pain doesn’t resolve following conservative care, your podiatrist may recommend a surgical procedure, such as plantar fascia release.

To discover treatment options for heel pain, call the Paris Foot & Ankle Clinic office in Paris, Texas, or use the online booking page today.