Heel pain is felt in the underside of the foot. This area of the foot plays a critical function in keeping you balanced and stable, as well as absorbing shock with every step. The weight of the human body, combined with shock absorption and the demands placed upon the heel from activities like walking, running, and sports make heel pain very common.
Many foot conditions cause heel pain. Below, we discuss the most common causes of heel pain and where you can go in South Texas for the highest quality foot and ankle treatments.
Plantar Fasciitis
This is a common condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed. It is the most common cause of heel pain, resulting from repetitive strain on the plantar fascia. Pain from this condition is usually described as sharp and stabbing. It is worst in the mornings (after resting)and after prolonged periods of standing. Overuse, abnormal foot mechanics, improper footwear, obesity, and aging are risk factors for plantar fasciitis.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the underside of the heel. They can develop as a result of plantar fasciitis, as the body responds to the inflammation by forming calcium deposits. Heel spurs can be very painful, especially when standing or doing activities that require you to be on your feet. The very same risk factors for plantar fasciitis increase your chances for heel spurs. Runners or those who engage in jumping sports are prone to heel spurs.
Achilles Tendonitis
This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon, which runs down the back of the leg, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, is irritated or inflamed, causing heel pain. You use this tendon to walk, run, sprint, or jump, and with increased activity, the pain can worsen. Strenuous activities often cause Achilles tendinitis, and this is common in athletes and weekend warriors.
Bursitis
Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints. Heel bursitis can occur when there is a lack of proper warm-up of the ankle, there is a sudden intensity in activity, or if you wear ill-fitting footwear. With bursitis, there will be a palpable bump that can be felt somewhere on the heel.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone that can occur with repetitive stress or direct trauma to the foot. Pain that worsens over time and tenderness that is felt when pressing down on the areaare typical signs of a stress fracture. More severe fractures typically develop due to trauma from a specific incident, such as a sports collision.
Heel Pain Treatment in San Antonio, TX
Trust the board-certified podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas with the treatment of your heel pain. We are a well-equipped facility offering on-site diagnostics, state-of-the-art treatments, and superb rehabilitation. It is important that you get an accurate diagnosis, so you receive the appropriate treatment for your condition. Our foot and ankle doctors are highly experienced in treating all types of podiatry issues.
The Podiatry Group of South Texas has locations in San Antonio, Boerne, Floresville, Hondo, Kenedy, and Live Oak. Call our office nearest you to schedule an appointment or use our convenient online request form. We look forward to providing you with the best and most effective heel pain treatments available today.
