The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. It is called heels spur syndrome when a heel spur is present. There are other causes of heel pain as well, such as stress fracture, tendonitis, arthritis, nerve irritation, or possibly a cyst. It is important to have heel pain properly diagnosed.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fascia, the band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot. It stretches as the arch collapses. In this condition, the fascia first becomes irritated than inflamed, resulting in heel pain.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis Are

Pain on the bottom of the heel
Pain that is usually worse upon rising
Gradual increase in intensity and frequency of symptoms
Intensity of symptoms usually increase with activity levels.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Repetitive stress to the plantar fascia usually leads to inflammation. Chronic inflammation leads to thickening and shortening of the plantar fascia. Exercise involving running, walking or jumping, weight gain or a change in gait due to hip, knee or back pain can lead to repetitive stress of the plantar fascia.

Treatment

Identifying the specific individual causes of plantar fasciitis and limiting or eliminating them can be critical in relieving symptoms.

Simple therapy frequently relieves symptoms for most individuals. However, complete recovery may take weeks or even months. The following recommendations are usually helpful in relieving symptoms.

Avoid flat shoes and bare feet. Athletic shoes or walking shoes are generally best.
Avoid walking on hard surfaces, or uneven surfaces.
Avoid walking or running for exercise. Try non weight-bearing exercises such as swimming or cycling
Ice massage to your heel
Over-the-counter arch supports or custom arch supports to relieve the stress on the plantar fascia.
Night splint to reduce contracture of plantar fascia.
(Dorsal Night Splints available at our Footcare store)
Over-the-counter medications to reduce pain and inflammation may be helpful, however extended use is not recommended.

When conservative measures fail to provide relief of symptoms, or symptoms returned quickly, consultation for professional treatment is advised. Other treatment options may include injections, physical therapy, or possible surgical treatment.