The location of heel pain indicates what structures are involved and can change the way BioPed clinicians approach treatment.
Pain on the bottom of the heel is usually caused by plantar fasciitis, which can be complicated by presence of a bone spur. Pain on the inside of the heel may be a tendon strain also known as posterior tibial tendonitis. Pain on the back of the heel is usually achilles tendinitis, a Haglund’s deformity (AKA “pump bump”) or in active children, a condition known as Sever’s disease. Sever’s disease is an apophysitis that is attributed to growing bones and their growth plates.
Overpronation, too much motion and instability of the heel causes strain on the plantar fascia (a thick, strong band of connective tissue), ligaments, and tendons in the foot. It is the most common cause of heel pain, no matter where on the heel it is located.
Athletes who train a lot are susceptible to overuse injuries including excess strain on soft tissues.
Treatment
Massage and ice therapy: Massage balls can be effective in breaking up scar tissue that may have formed due to inflammation. Freezing a water bottle to deliver massage and cold therapy at the same time is like “killing two birds with one stone.”
Stretching: Increasing flexibility and keeping the soft tissue supple through stretching can help heal an injury and prevent a new one from forming.
Foot sleeve: Orthosleeve FS6 is an innovative device with orthopaedic support that helps ease and reduce swelling that is often associated with plantar fasciitis. It is specifically designed to lift and support the plantar fascia. It has 6 zones of compression which helps to increase circulation and reduce inflammation.
Custom foot orthotics: If heel pain is caused by a biomechanical issue such as overpronation, orthotics will help to control excess movement of the heel. This creates a stable rearfoot and allows the foot and lower body to function more efficiently when walking.
Cortisone injection: Delivers an anti-inflammatory medicine classified as a steroid directly to the painful site by means of injection. Oftentimes we are unsure if the pills we are taking (such as ibuprofen) will actually reach our feet. Delivering medicine right to the site ensures it will work where it needs to work. There are mild risks to procedures like this such as infection, numbness and rupture.
Footwear: Not all shoes are created equal. You may be wearing the wrong shoes for your foot type. Let us at BioPed help you find the right fit and model to increase your overall comfort. Also, wearing an indoor pair of shoes or sandals with a molded foot bed can be beneficial while walking around your home.
All of the treatments outlined above can be used and done in conjunction with one another.
Remember, whether you’re young or not so young, foot pain including heel pain is not normal. If you are suffering with heel pain, book an appointment with one of our lower limb clinicians today to determine the cause and best treatment!
