Does heel pain make walking uncomfortable? The podiatrists at our foot and ankle center share common causes of heel pain and explain what can be done to relieve it.
Haglund's Deformity
Haglund's deformity, also known as retrocalcaneal bursitis, causes a swollen red bump to develop on the back of your heel. The bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac, helps your Achilles tendon glide over the bones in your ankle joint easily. You can develop Haglund's deformity if you wear shoes that rub against your heel or exercise more intensely or longer than normal. The condition often goes away if you choose shoes that don't irritate your heel. Soaking your heel in warm water, applying ice packs, and taking over-the-counter pain medication can help reduce pain. If your symptoms continue, you may benefit from physical therapy, ultrasound treatment, corticosteroid injections, or orthotics.
Calluses
Painful calluses can develop on your heel if you wear shoes that don't fit well or if one of the metatarsal bones in your foot is longer than the other. Although you can remove shallow calluses with a pumice stone, it's a good idea to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist if your callus is thick or you have diabetes. If a difference in the length of your bones causes frequent calluses, you may benefit from surgery to lift and realign the longer bone.
Plantar Fasciitis
An inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue you can feel if you press on the sole of your foot, is a common cause of heel pain. The condition is more likely to occur if you run or are on your feet for long periods of time, are overweight, or have an arch problem. If your pain is mild, you may notice some improvement if you stay off your feet, apply ice packs, and perform a few stretching exercises. Corticosteroid injections, night splints, and heel inserts are often recommended by foot doctors to treat plantar fasciitis symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.
Are you concerned about your heel pain? Call our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists. We are here to help you get back on your feet.
