Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Heel Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Heel pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and activity levels. While some may dismiss it as a minor problem, untreated heel pain can lead to more serious complications and impact your daily life. At Align Foot & Ankle, we understand the importance of addressing heel pain early and providing effective treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. Let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and advanced treatment options available at our clinic.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can result from several conditions, each with its own set of causes and risk factors. The most common causes include:

  1. Plantar Fasciitis
    • What is it? Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. It is the most common cause of heel pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest.
    • Causes: Overuse, prolonged standing, poor footwear, flat feet, high arches, or obesity can cause microtears in the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
    • Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
  2. Heel Spurs
    • What are they? Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis, though they can occur independently.
    • Causes: Chronic strain on the foot muscles and ligaments, repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone, or wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to the formation of heel spurs.
    • Symptoms: Heel spurs themselves may not cause pain, but they can irritate surrounding tissues, leading to sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially during walking or running.
  3. Achilles Tendinitis
    • What is it? Achilles tendinitis is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often occurs in runners or individuals who suddenly increase their activity levels.
    • Causes: Overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, tight calf muscles, or excessive uphill running can cause microtears and inflammation in the Achilles tendon.
    • Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, especially after exercise or in the morning. Swelling, tenderness, and difficulty standing on tiptoes may also occur.
  4. Bursitis
    • What is it? Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the bones, tendons, and muscles around the joints. In the heel, it usually affects the area between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone.
    • Causes: Repetitive stress, wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, or trauma to the heel can cause the bursa to become inflamed.
    • Symptoms: Pain at the back of the heel, swelling, warmth, and tenderness that worsens with activity.
  5. Stress Fractures
    • What are they? Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the heel bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, often seen in athletes and people who engage in high-impact activities.
    • Causes: High-impact sports, sudden increases in physical activity, osteoporosis, or improper footwear can contribute to stress fractures.
    • Symptoms: Persistent pain in the heel that worsens with activity and decreases with rest, along with possible swelling and tenderness

Radiculopathy

  • What is it? Sometimes, heel pain can originate from nerve irritation or compression in the back, a condition known as radiculopathy. The pain may radiate down the leg to the heel.
  • Causes: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other back issues can lead to nerve compression, resulting in heel pain.
  • Symptoms: Sharp, shooting pain that may extend from the lower back to the heel, often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness..
  • If Dr. Ho-Ellsworth suspects that your heel pain is due to radiculopathy originating from your back, she may recommend a referral to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment. This comprehensive approach ensures that the underlying cause of the pain is correctly identified and treated, helping to prevent chronic pain and further complications.

When to See Dr. Ho-Ellsworth for Heel Pain

If you experience persistent heel pain that does not improve with home care, it’s crucial to consult Dr. Ho-Ellsworth at Align Foot & Ankle. Ignoring heel pain can lead to more severe problems, including chronic pain, altered gait, and increased risk of injury. Seek professional care if you notice any of the following:

  • Heel pain that lasts for more than a few weeks.
  • Severe pain that prevents you from walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.
  • Swelling, redness, or warmth in the heel area.
  • Numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the foot.

Advanced Treatments for Heel Pain at Align Foot & Ankle

At Align Foot & Ankle, we offer a range of advanced, non-invasive, and minimally invasive treatments to address heel pain based on its underlying cause. Here are some effective options available at our clinic:

  1. MLS Laser Therapy
    A state-of-the-art, non-invasive treatment that reduces pain and inflammation while promoting tissue repair, ideal for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and other soft tissue injuries.
  2. Remy Class IV Laser Therapy
    High-powered laser therapy that penetrates deeply into tissues to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote faster healing, providing quick and significant pain relief.
  3. Custom Orthotics and Supportive Footwear
    Custom orthotics created using advanced gait plate and 3D scanning technology provide optimal support, correct abnormal gait patterns, and reduce heel pain.
  4. Shockwave Therapy
    A non-invasive treatment using acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, effectively treating chronic heel pain and promoting recovery.
  5. Regenerative Injections
    Regenerative injections harness the body’s natural healing abilities to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and support tissue repair, providing a long-lasting solution for heel pain relief.
  6. Topical CBD Cream
    3000mg CBD cream offers powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, providing targeted relief without the side effects of oral medications.

Heel pain should never be ignored, as it can significantly impact your quality of life and mobility. At Align Foot & Ankle, we provide advanced, personalized care to help you manage and prevent heel pain effectively. Whether you are dealing with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or other heel-related conditions, our experienced team led by Dr. Ho-Ellsworth is here to guide you toward the best treatment options for your specific needs. Don’t let heel pain hold you back—schedule a consultation with us today to take the first step toward pain-free living.

Contact us at 512-882-4911 or book your appointment online to learn more about our diagnostic services, advanced treatments, and how we can help you maintain healthy feet and a healthier life. Let’s take steps together toward better vascular and nerve health this September!For more tips and updates on foot and ankle health, follow us on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.