Why Do My Heels Hurt?
Heel pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages and walks of life and can be caused by various factors. It can range from mild discomfort to debilitating agony, significantly impacting one's quality of life and mobility. It's important to understand that heel pain is not a natural part of aging; it's an injury that can be effectively treated, especially when addressed promptly. Please don't hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment with us.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
- Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is among the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Achilles tendonitis is another common cause of heel pain, characterized by discomfort at the back of your heel. The Achilles tendon, one of the strongest tendons in your body, can become inflamed due to overuse or repetitive stress, which is very common in athletes and runners.
- Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are calcifications that develop on the heel bone. They can form at the attachment point of the plantar fascia or the Achilles tendon.
- Fat Pad Atrophy: Unfortunately, the first place we lose fat is where we need it the most: our heels. The fat pad underneath the heel can wear down over time, leading to less cushioning and increased pressure on the heel bone, resulting in pain.
- Stress Fracture: With all the repeated impact and pressure we usually put on our heels, they can start getting a stress reaction. That stress reaction can weaken the shell of the heel bone and cause a tiny crack or a hairline fracture, just as when you slightly crack an egg but don’t break it.
- Haglund's Deformity: Haglund's deformity, commonly known as a "pump bump," manifests as a bony enlargement on the back of the heel.
- Nerve Entrapment: The ankle and heel bone nerves can sometimes become trapped or compressed, leading to pain in the heel and surrounding areas.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
The symptoms of heel pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common manifestations include:
- Pain Underneath the Heel.
- Pain at the Back of the Heel.
- Stiffness and Discomfort.
- Swelling and Redness.
- Difficulty Walking.
Although this e-book is designed to provide more knowledge regarding heel pain, remember it is not meant to diagnose you. A proper diagnosis with our podiatrist in California is essential to determine the specific cause of your heel pain. Our office utilizes advanced digital X-ray technology to examine your bones and joints thoroughly. We may also employ diagnostic ultrasound to assess the soft tissue for inflammation.
When to See a Livermore Podiatrist for Heel Pain
This e-book will delve into the intricacies of heel pain, exploring its causes, the anatomy of the foot, lifestyle factors that contribute, and, most importantly, your personalized guide
to treatment and prevention. Whether you're someone dealing with persistent heel pain or a health care professional seeking valuable insights, this guide is crafted to empower you
with knowledge and actionable steps.
Visit our Livermore podiatrist office for Heel Pain Treatment. I understand that dealing with persistent heel pain can be disheartening, but it doesn't have to be a long-lasting issue. Together, we can identify the cause of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan. Remember, seeking treatment early is essential. Reach out to us by calling 925-532-0099 or requesting an appointment online. I look forward to meeting you soon and helping you find relief from your heel pain.