Heel Pain Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

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Heel Pain Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Understanding

Heel pain is pain that is generally felt on the back and bottom of the foot, which is referred to as the heel.

Although it is rarely caused by a serious condition, this complaint can affect daily activities, especially when the body’s weight rests on the heels.

This health condition is actually not a disease, but a symptom of several types of disease.

Pain intensity can increase over time if the main cause is not treated properly.

Here are sundries about heel pain, from causes to treatment.

Symptom

Heel pain conditions can be characterized by the following symptoms:

  • Pain in the sole of the foot near the heel
  • Pain on the first few steps after getting out of bed in the morning, or after a long period of rest, such as after a long car trip
  • The pain subsides after a few minutes of walking or activity
  • Numbness or tingling in the feet, which indicates a disturbance in the innervation of the legs and feet
  • A feeling of heat in the area of ​​the leg that is experiencing pain, accompanied by redness
  • Stiffness or swelling of the heel

Reason

There are several causes of heel pain, such as:

  • Plantar Fasciitis (inflammation of the tendons of the soles of the feet)
  • Ligament/tendon injury (eg  Achilles tendinitis )
  • Osteophyte formation
  • Calcification of the heel
  • Bursitis
  • Bruised heel fat
  • Fracture (broken bone)
  • Neuropathy (a pinched nerve in the ankle)

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of developing heel pain, including:

  • Obesity
  • Less stretching
  • Improper use of footwear
  • Impact of repetitive daily activities
  • Activities that load increases

Diagnosis

The process of determining the diagnosis of heel-to-toe pain can be done through a detailed medical interview and physical examination directly by a doctor.

If the cause of pain in the heel cannot be determined through a medical interview and physical examination, a supporting examination will be recommended.

  • Examinations carried out to find out the cause of knee pain are:
  • Laboratory blood tests to check whether there is inflammation
  • X-ray of the foot to check the bone structure of the foot
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Ultrasonography (USG)

Treatment

More than 90 percent of heel pain patients will improve within 10 months after starting these simple treatment methods:

1. Rest

Reducing or even stopping activities that make the pain worse is the first step in reducing pain.

You may be advised to do sports activities that put pressure on your feet on a hard surface, for example, walking or aerobics.

2. Ice

Rubbing your feet on a cold water bottle or ice for 20 minutes is very effective at reducing pain. This can be done 3-4 times every day.

3. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory

Medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce pain and inflammation. However, using the drug for more than 1 month must be under the supervision of a doctor.

4. Exercise

Heel pain due to plantar fasciitis is exacerbated by tight muscles in the feet and calves.

Calf and plantar fascia stretches are the most effective way to relieve pain.

5. Calf Stretch

In a calf stretch, lean against a wall with one knee straight and heel on the ground. Place the other leg in front with the knee bent.

To stretch your calf and heel muscles, press your hips into your heels in a controlled manner. Hold the position for 10 seconds, then relax.

Repeat this exercise 20 times for each leg. A strong tug on the calf should be felt during the stretch.

6. Supportive Shoes

When walking and the heel touches the ground, there can be tension in the fascia, which can cause microtrauma.

Well, using shoes with thick soles and extra padding can reduce pain when standing and walking.

Prevention

Here’s how to prevent heel pain that you can do:

  • Maintain body weight to remain ideal and avoid obesity
  • Make it a habit to warm up before exercising
  • Use leg protectors
  • Choose shoes with low or medium heels that are comfortable and not too tight or baggy

Complications

Prolonged pain in the heel area can hinder sufferers from walking and daily activities.

Sufferers are more at risk of losing balance, falling easily, as well as being prone to injury.

When to see a doctor?

Immediately consult a doctor if you experience the following conditions:

  • Heel pain gets worse
  • The heel becomes red or swollen
  • The pain in the heel suddenly got worse
  • Difficulty walking due to discomfort in the heel
  • Pain does not subside after being treated for 2-3 weeks

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