The heel bone (calcaneus) is the largest among all the bones in the foot and bears the maximum impact of body movement. It is protected by a thick covering of fatty tissues which not only protects but also gives it its shape. Heel pain is a common problem that affects people irrespective of age and gender.
Causes
- Running, walking and jumping on uneven or hard surfaces
- Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support
- Being overweight
- Stepping on a hard or pointed object
- Direct injury to the heel bone
- Formation of bony outgrowths or heel spurs
- Diabetes
- Sprains or strains which affect the tendons and ligaments
- Fracture of the heel bone
- Medical conditions such as Neuroma, Bursitis, Arthritis, Flat Feet, Sever’s Disease, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis etc.
Symptoms
- Pain which can be mild to severe
- Inability to bear body weight
- Tenderness, redness, bruising may be observed
- Pain may aggravate in the morning while getting up from the bed
- Change in gait/ limp
- A feeling of warmth in the foot and heel
- Swelling
- Inability to bend the foot or turn the toes
- Numbness or tingling sensation
Diagnosis
- Evaluation of the injured foot and heel by the orthopedic doctor
- Assessment of the patient’s medical history
- X-rays may be conducted to check for bone damage MRI and CT scans help reveal soft tissue, blood vessel, tendon and ligament damage
- Nerve conduction tests may be done to check for loss of sensation
Treatment
- Wearing a splint over the heel at night
- Applying ice packs at regular intervals for 2-3 days
- Giving rest to the injured foot
- Wearing supportive shoes with proper cushioning
- Pain killers and anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed
- Avoiding any activity that may put stress on the heel or foot
- Strapping or taping may be advised to support the ligaments and tendons
- Shoe inserts, customized orthotics, heel wedges may be used for additional support
- Surgical intervention may be required in case of a fracture, for removal of bone spurs or torn ligaments and tendons
- Physical therapy and specific stretching exercises may be recommended to regain strength and motion
We, at OrthoTexas, provide effective treatment for heel pain and other foot conditions.