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Various Causes of Heel Pain

Although plantar fasciitis (an inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament on the sole of the foot) is often the root of heel pain, it can come from a variety of other conditions as well. For instance, compression of the medial calcaneal nerve, which travels down the inner part of the ankle, can create a tingling or numb sensation in the heel as well as pain. In older adults, fat pads in the heel can wear down (fat pad atrophy) and cause pain. Systemic inflammatory conditions such as certain types of arthritis, Reiter syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis, and a common type of lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus) may sometimes be associated with heel pain. Sometimes tiny nodules, or plantar fibroma, develop on the plantar fascia which can cause pain in the arch near the heel. To have the cause of your heel pain properly diagnosed and treated, make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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How to Deal With Arthritic Foot Pain

Arthritis, a painful inflammatory condition, can affect many parts of the body including the feet, particularly as you age. Arthritic foot pain often comes with stiff joints, as well as a loss of strength, flexibility, and mobility in the affected area. Various things can be done to relieve pain and slow the progression of this disease, including foot massages to improve circulation and decrease tension in the joint, using heat (to loosen the muscles and reduce stiffness), or using ice (to constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the problem area).  Wearing proper footwear (wide enough to accommodate orthotics or other foot aids and with proper arch support to stabilize the joints and feet) and continuing to move despite the pain may also help.  Other suggestions include maintaining a healthy body weight, participating in physical therapy, using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, topical creams, and;/or steroid injections. While there is no cure for arthritis, a podiatrist can help determine the best way to handle your arthritic foot pain.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

  • Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
  • Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
  • Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
  • Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
  • Age – Risk increases with age
  • Gender –Most types are more common in women
  • Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

What Are the Benefits of Stretching the Feet?

Many patients have occupations that require standing for most of the day. The heel of the foot is often affected by this, and conditions can develop including plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. When the feet are properly stretched it can positively affect the overall body. The standing lunging calf stretch can help to diminish tension in the body that is caused by standing. This stretch may help to promote circulation in the calf muscles which can affect the Achilles tendon. The heels can be stretched by rolling the foot on a tennis ball. Additionally, standing on a step and slowly lowering the heel until a gentle stretch is felt is another way of successfully stretching the heels. If you would like more information about effective foot stretches, please confer with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Pump Bump

High heeled shoes, often worn by women, can cause irritation to the back of the heel. This condition is known as Haglund’s deformity, or pump bump and can eventually lead to other problems, such as Achilles’ tendonitis or bursitis. Those who have high arches or tight Achilles tendons are especially vulnerable to pump bump from high heels. Not only is this a painful condition but the heel can swell and become red. Treatments include icing the back of the heel, anti-inflammatory medications, heel lifts in shoes, and stretching exercises. The best prevention is avoiding high heels. Should pain and discomfort from pump bumps persist, a visit to a podiatrist is suggested.

 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Yardley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet

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