Heel pain is discomfort or soreness that’s felt in the back of the foot, specifically in the heel. Heel pain can be caused by various factors, & the symptoms experienced may vary depending on the underlying cause as well as the individual. Symptoms of heel pain can vary based on the underlying cause, but they commonly include:
- Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain & discomfort in the heel of the foot, is often felt as a sharp or dull ache.
- Discomfort in the Morning: Pain and stiffness in the heel, usually when getting out of bed, or after periods of rest.
- Swelling, Tenderness: Swelling or inflammation around the heel and may be tender to touch.
- Pain with Activity: Participating in specific weight-bearing activities like walking, running, or standing can disrupt normal walking patterns & exacerbate discomfort.
- Limping: Some individuals experiencing severe heel pain avoid putting too much pressure on the affected heel, leading to the development of a limp.
- Limited Range of Motion: Heel pain may result in decreased flexibility & limited range of motion.
Here are some common causes of heel pain along with their associated symptoms:
Plantar Fasciitis:
Cause: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain at the bottom of the heel.
- Stiffness & discomfort in the arch of the foot.
- Pain improves with movement but worsens after prolonged activity.
Achilles Tendinitis:
Cause: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.
Symptoms:
- Pain & tenderness at the back of the heel.
- Stiffness in the Achilles tendon area, especially after long periods of inactivity.
Heel Spurs:
Cause: a bony outgrowth that forms on the underside of the heel bone. It develops in response to long-term strain on the foot’s ligaments and the muscles.
Symptoms:
- Pain & tenderness in the bottom of the heel, especially during physical activities.
- Discomfort while walking or running.
Sever’s Disease:
Cause: Inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone, commonly occurring in children and adolescents.
Symptoms: Pain experienced typically at the back of the heel.
Stress Fractures:
Cause: Tiny cracks in the bones of the foot, including the heel bone, due to repetitive stress & overuse.
Symptoms: Localized pain and tenderness.
Bursitis:
Cause: Inflammation of the bursa sac that provides cushioning between the tendons, bones, & the muscles.
Symptoms:
- Pain and swelling at the back of the heel.
- Discomfort worsens when pressure is applied.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:
Cause: Compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space behind the inner bone of the ankle.
Symptoms:
- Pain, burning, or tingling sensation at the back of the heel and ankle.
- Discomfort that may radiate into the sole of the foot.
Nerve Entrapment:
Cause: Compression or irritation of nerves in the foot.
Symptoms:
- Sharp, shooting pain or numbness in the area.
- Pain that worsens with certain movements and activities.
Arthritis:
Cause: Inflammatory or degenerative joint condition affecting the joints around the heel.
Symptoms:
- Pain, stiffness, as well as swelling in the affected area.
- Pain may be worse after long periods of rest or inactivity.