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Heel pain is usually caused by stress to the structures that support your heel bone. The most common cause of heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis. This is caused by inflammation to the plantar fascia, a band of fibrous connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the ball of the foot. When the plantar fascia is continually stretched passed its normal extension, tears in the fiber occur. The result is pain, inflammation and possibly bone spurs. Pain associated with plantar fasciitis may disappear as you perform normal activities, only to reappear with rest. The pain can be profound with strenuous exercise compared to moderate exercise. Aggravation to the area may occur with improperly fitted footwear and from chronic irritation due a continuous athletic lifestyle.
Not all heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis. Another cause can be Achilles tendonitis, triggering pain in the back of the heel. This condition occurs when the tendon in the back of the ankle and connects at the back of the heel is strained causing tears along its length. The result is pain, inflammation and possibly the development of a heel spur.
A heel spur is bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, only visible through imaging test. You can see this on an x-ray or a bone scan. A heel spur is a by-product of the strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot. Other causes of heel pain include but not limited to:
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
- Stress fractures
- Neuroma
- Bone bruise
- Haglunds’ Deformity
Excessive pronation of the foot can cause abnormal stretching, and pulling of the ligaments plus tendons attached to the heel bone resulting in pain. This can also lead to problems in the knee, hips, and possibly the lower back if not cared for.
You should always address heel pain to you podiatrists as soon as possible. Pain is the body’s way of alerting to damage and to seek medical attention. And you podiatrists is uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat problems with your heel. They can provide you with a variety of treatment options, as well as valuable information and education to prevent future pain to heel and foot.
Phone: (505) 883-6600 |info@angelafootdoctor.com
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“Dr Drury,
I thought I’d drop you a note and thank you again for hanging in there with me to get over my foot issues – primarily the plantar fasciitis. I’ve got great news to report as my husband and I did an extremely difficult hike at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon a few weeks ago and my foot was fine (other muscle groups were not quite ready for the level of difficulty). The hike was 9.4 miles with major elevation changes. Over this weekend, we did a 27 mile bike ride in Valle Caldera Preserve and again the foot held up fine. It is so wonderful to be back doing the outdoor activities I enjoy.
Truthfully, I’m also be glad to be wearing my cute shoes again a few days a week.
The APC treatment was amazing, I can’t believe the success I’ve had since having the treatment last November. As you know, I went through the cortisone shots with no success and we were starting to consider surgery. The APC treatment eliminated that need.
Thank you again to you and your staff for the part you played in my recovery. I recommend you and your staff to anyone I meet having foot issues.”
Ann Swancer