What Causes Heel Pain?
The heel bone, or calcaneus, absorbs a large amount of stress each day. Heel pain may develop from overuse, hard surfaces, poor footwear, sudden injury, abnormal gait mechanics, weight changes, flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, or underlying medical conditions. Some heel pain develops gradually, while other pain starts after a specific activity or injury.
Common Heel Pain Conditions
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in adults. It causes stabbing pain on the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps after rest. Achilles tendinitis causes pain and stiffness at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches or runs above the heel. Bursitis can create bruise-like pain and swelling at the back of the heel. Haglund’s deformity, sometimes called pump bump, is a bony prominence that irritates the soft tissue behind the heel. Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children and adolescents. Heel spurs may appear with chronic plantar fascia stress.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include sharp bottom-of-heel pain, pain at the back of the heel, morning pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, worsening pain with activity, or pain that returns after standing for a long time.
Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle
Dr. Suh may recommend rest, activity modification, ice, anti-inflammatory measures, stretching, custom orthotics, supportive shoes, MLS laser therapy, shock wave therapy, night splints, or injections when appropriate. Most heel pain improves with conservative care, especially when treatment begins early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what is causing my heel pain?
The location and timing of pain provide clues. Bottom-of-heel morning pain often suggests plantar fasciitis, while back-of-heel pain may suggest Achilles tendinitis or bursitis.
Will heel pain go away on its own?
Some mild cases improve with rest, but persistent heel pain often becomes chronic without proper treatment.
Do orthotics help heel pain?
Yes. Custom orthotics can support the arch, cushion the heel, and reduce strain on painful structures.