Heel pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact your quality of life. Many people immediately assume they have plantar fasciitis when they experience heel discomfort, but that's not always the case. While plantar fasciitis is a common culprit, several other conditions can cause heel pain. As a board-certified podiatrist at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group in Laguna Hills, I, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, DPM, see patients with all sorts of heel pain issues. Let's explore some of the common causes and when it's important to seek professional help.
Common Causes of Heel Pain:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most frequent cause of heel pain. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel 1 to your toes. Pain is often worse in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Achilles Tendinitis: The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. Overuse or strain can cause it to become inflamed and painful, especially where the tendon inserts into the heel.
- Heel Spurs: These bony growths on the underside of the heel bone can develop in response to chronic plantar fasciitis or other conditions. While heel spurs themselves aren't always painful, they can contribute to heel pain.
- Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the heel bone can occur due to repetitive stress, especially in runners or athletes. Pain usually worsens with activity and improves with rest.
- Bursitis: Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. Inflammation of the bursae in the heel can cause pain and tenderness.
- Nerve Entrapment: Nerves in the heel can become compressed or pinched, leading to pain, tingling, or numbness. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is one example.
- Baxter's Nerve Entrapment: This involves the medial calcaneal nerve, and can mimic plantar fasciitis.
- Other Causes: Less common causes of heel pain include gout, arthritis, and certain systemic diseases.
When to See a Podiatrist:
While some heel pain may resolve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers, it's essential to see a podiatrist if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain: Pain that makes it difficult to walk or stand.
- Persistent pain: Heel pain that doesn't improve after a few weeks of conservative treatment.
- Numbness or tingling: These sensations can indicate nerve involvement.
- Swelling or redness: Signs of inflammation or infection.
- Limited movement: Difficulty moving your foot or ankle.
- Pain that worsens with activity: Especially if it doesn't improve with rest.
- Pain that interferes with daily activities: If heel pain is impacting your quality of life.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Dr. Arjomandi will conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your heel pain. This may include reviewing your medical history, assessing your gait, and performing imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. Treatment options will vary depending on the diagnosis and may include:
- Rest: Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate the pain.
- Ice: Applying ice packs to the heel to reduce inflammation.
- Stretching exercises: Improving flexibility and range of motion.
- Custom orthotics: Providing support and cushioning to the heel and arch.
- Medications: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Injections: Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Strengthening muscles and improving function.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural problems or release trapped nerves.
Don't let heel pain keep you sidelined. If you're experiencing persistent or severe heel pain, schedule an appointment with Dr. Neda Arjomandi at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group today.
We can help you find the source of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet.
We serve Laguna Hills and surrounding areas, including Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Santa Margarita, Dana Point, San Clemente, Tustin, and more.
Schedule your appointment today! Call us at (949) 581-2520.