As an active individual, do you often experience pain in your heel or arch? Heel pain is a very common complaint among active individuals, but people who are not active can also suffer from this problem as well. Many times, simply standing for a prolonged period of time can cause you to experience heel pain. Heel pain is generally the result of faulty biomechanics that place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. The stress may also be a result from injury, or a bruise incurred while, walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces. In addition, it may also result from wearing poorly constructed footwear, or being overweight. What is Heel Pain and What are the Causes? Heel pain is one of the most common complaints heard by podiatrists. At the initial onset of heel pain, you may feel sudden discomfort, but many times it can be a progressive aching that gets worse with time. Heel pain is a more general term given to specific ailments that affect the foot, with the most common being plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Pain in your heel can be the result of an array of factors. Most often, it does not result from a single injury, such as a fall or broken ankle, but usually as a result of excessive or continuous stress and pounding of the heel. In addition to pain around the ball of your foot, you may experience swelling and bruising. Heel Pain in the Morning In the morning, heel pain may be at its peak immediately after you get out of bed. The pain subsides after long periods of rest, but after sudden weight is put on the area following long periods of rest, severe heel pain can follow. As you begin moving and walking throughout the day, this type of heel pain usually goes away as the tissue is stretched. Most cases of heel pain result from plantar fasciitis, which occurs when small tears and inflammation develop along the plantar fascia ligament. When treating heel pain that is most prevalent in the morning, the specific condition responsible for the pain should be directly addressed. In most cases, conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis are usually effective. One treatment is through the use of orthotic shoe inserts, which are very easy to use and are able to fit into any pair of shoes. Prevention Techniques In addition to early diagnosis and treatment, you should take extra precautions in preventing heel pain. An array of steps can be taken to avoid heel pain including: Wear shoes that fit well and have shock-absorbent soles, rigid shanks, and supportive heel counters. Wear the proper shoes for each activity. Do not wear shoes with excessive wear on heels or soles. Prepare properly before exercising. Pace yourself when you participate in athletic activities. Don't underestimate your body's need for rest and good nutrition. If obese, lose weight. If you are exhibiting heel pain that will not go away with conservative, at-home treatments, visit your New York City podiatrist for further diagnosis and treatment. Your podiatrist will be able to assess your pain and target the cause.
Please Rate this Article 5 out of 54 out of 53 out of 52 out of 51 out of 5
Not yet Rated
