With proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional Heel Pain can be successfully treated, even prevented

Have your heels been hurting? Heel pain may occur in the front, back or bottom of the heel. To learn more about the causes, treatment and prevention of heel pain, read on.

What causes heel pain?

There are several main causes of heel pain. These include:

• Overuse injuries, which can occur as a result from impact, poorly-fitting shoes or a sudden increases in activity
• Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the underside of the heel bone
• Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot
• Excessive pronation, a flattening of the foot arch, which stretches the foot's muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Disease, including rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis
• Achilles tendonitis, an inflammation of the Achilles tendon
• Bone bruises, which is an inflammation of the tissues that cover the heel bone
• Fractures, including stress fractures.

How is heel pain diagnosed?

Heel pain should be diagnosed and treated by a healthcare professional. A podiatric physician, also called a doctor of podiatric medicine, is a healthcare professional trained in the care of feet. Orthopaedic physicians and physical therapists also are trained to provide foot care and can treat heel pain.

How is heel pain treated?

Depending on the cause of heel pain, treatment options include:

• Improved footwear
• Orthotics.
• Anti-inflammatory medicines.
• Casts or splints .
• Cortisone injections.
• Surgery.

Preventing heel pain

To avoid heel pain, the following is recommended:

• Talk before you walk. Talk to your doctor before beginning any new workout program.
• Wear them well. Be sure to wear shoes that provide good support and fit well.
• Stretch it out. Stretch the Achilles tendon before and after exercise.
• Careful where you step. Avoid walking on uneven surfaces.
• Keep your shoes on. Avoid going barefoot.
• Don't overdo it. If your heel hurts, stop the activity you are performing.

For more information on heel pain, talk with your healthcare professional.

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