Every time we walk we put tons of stress on the feet. Though the feet are capable of handling a heavy load, too much stress can cause foot pain to develop; especially in the heel. The heel is the first part of the foot to contact the ground when walking. Undue stress on the heel can cause heel pain; that hampers our routine life-style.
Elderly people and those with an active lifestyle, such as athletes, are more prone to heel-related problems.
Heel pain is generally the result of too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tendons and muscles that attach to it. It also results from bruises, injury, wearing uncomfortable footwear; or obesity.
The most common problems associated with heel pain are:
Heel Spurs: visible by X-ray, appears as a bony-growth extending forward up to half an inch from the heel.
Plantar Fasciitis: this condition occurs when fascia, a connective tissue running along the plantar surface or base of the foot, is torn and inflamed. It commonly occurs while running and jumping.
Excessive Pronation of the arch: Pain in heel can occur due to flattening of the arch of the foot. In normal motion, pronation allows the feet to adapt to ground and absorbs shocks while walking.
Achilles tendinitis: or the inflammation of the Achilles tendon can cause pain at the back of the heel.
Apart from these, heel pain can be a symptom of the following conditions:
-Rheumatoid arthritis
—Bursitis, or inflamed bursa
-Haglund's deformity
—Bone fracture or bruise
-Improper footwear
-Obesity
Heel Pain can be alleviated by a combination of techniques like rest, icing and medication. Surgery is rarely necessary.
Rest - Adequate rest drives the process of healing. Immobilization gives rest to the injured tissue and prevents further worsening of the damage.
Apply Ice - Icing is very effective to control any type of foot pain. Applying ice pack to the injured area reduces the swelling on your feet.
Recommended Stretches - After taking sufficient rest, the podiatrist will recommend stretches to bring your heel back to normal movement and flexibility.
Medications - You can take anti-inflammatory medicines like Ibuprofen to relieve the pain.
Shoe Insert/Splint - to provide support to the heel when walking.
TIPS FOR PREVENTION
Wear shoes that are flat and roomy. And have support for heels.
Before exercising, warm up and do stretching exercises.
Do not stress an injured heel further. Seek medical aid immediately.
