4 Common Causes of Heel Pain

Although it’s relatively small compared to other bones in the body, the heel is the largest bone of the foot and is vulnerable to various injuries. Some problems involve the connecting tendons or other soft tissue structures. Some heel issues affect the bone itself.

Our expert team at Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, in Dallas, Garland, and Richardson, Texas, provides a full scope of podiatry services for people of all ages. We’re committed to helping you live the best life possible — and we know that healthy, pain-free feet contribute heavily to your overall well-being and activity levels.  

Here, we explore four common causes of heel pain, and treatments that can help.

1. Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause of persistent heel pain. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.

The pain is typically sharp and often worse in the morning or after prolonged rest. Causes vary, but may include any combination of the following:

• Overuse, especially from activities like running or standing for long periods
• Footwear that lacks proper arch support
• Excessive weight or sudden weight gain
• Standing, running, or walking on hard surfaces

Plantar fasciitis treatment typically involves rest, avoiding the activities that exacerbate your pain, and using ice therapy to ease inflammation. We may also recommend anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections to reduce moderate to severe swelling and pain.

Preventative care may include stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, guidance on supportive shoes, and orthotic inserts to provide additional support.

2. Achilles tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to the heel bone. Inflammation of the tendon (tendonitis) causes pain at the back of the heel.

Achilles tendonitis is often associated with a sudden increase in physical activities that require running or jumping. Tight calf muscles that put extra strain on the Achilles tendon can also cause inflammation.

Treatments typically include:

• Resting and avoiding activities that strain the tendon
• Icing the affected area to reduce swelling and pain
• Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles
• Wearing shoes with proper heel support and cushioning

We may also recommend physical therapy and provide guidelines on gradually increasing exercise intensity to avoid overloading the tendon.

3. Heel spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the bottom of the heel bone. They are a common complication of plantar fasciitis, and can cause sharp heel pain, especially when you’re bearing weight (i.e., standing, walking).

Long-term strain on the muscles and ligaments in the foot during repetitive activities such as running or dancing can cause heel spurs. Poor footwear and abnormal walking patterns that stress the heel also increase your risk of this common problem.

Heel spur treatment varies and may include medication, orthotic devices to relieve pressure on the heel, and physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

4. Heel bursitis

Heel bursitis occurs when the bursae — small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints — become inflamed. In the heel, this inflammation often affects the retrocalcaneal bursa located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone.

One cause of heel bursitis is overuse or repetitive stress, especially from running or jumping. Other triggers include ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the heel and cause direct trauma or injury. Treatment strategies for heel bursitis vary depending on its underlying cause.

Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, specializes in treating and preventing foot and ankle problems, including heel pain. Call your nearest office in Dallas, Garland, or Richardson, Texas, today, or request an appointment online at your convenience.