Heel Pain

Heel pain and sore heels is generally the result of a biomechanical abnormality (mechanics of walking) which places too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. Heel pain may also result from injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces; wearing poorly constructed footwear; or being overweight.

A common cause of heel pain is a heel spur which can be described as a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone. The spur, visible by X ray, appears as a protrusion that can extend forward as much as half an inch. When there is no indication of bone enlargement, the condition is also referred to as "heel spur syndrome."

The heel spur is asymptomatic (not painful) the actual pain arises from plantar fascitis. Plantar fascitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia which is a broad band of tissue that attaches the heel to the toes. Many people with plantar fascitis complain of pain on first rising and after rest. Causes of heel pain include inadequate flexibility in the calf muscles, lack of arch support, being overweight, suddenly increasing activity, and spending too much time on the feet. For those who are not overweight and not on their feet too much, stretching the calf muscles before walking anywhere in the morning is often the cure. Ice after activities is also very important. Arch supports such as insoles treat the underlying cause of the heel pain and prevent future occurrences of the condition.