Heel pain is very common and there can be many possible causes of it. Some causes of heel pain are Baxter heel compression, plantar fasciitis, and achilles tendonitis. Baxter nerve compression is caused when the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve becomes entrapped in the medial heel. The result of this is heel pain. Baxter nerve compression is a condition that is most commonly found in dancers, gymnasts, and sprinters. Another condition that causes heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the plantar fascia in the foot becomes inflamed, Pain symptoms from plantar fasciitis tend to worsen with prolonged standing or exercise. Achilles tendonitis is also a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the tendon that connects the heel to the muscles of the lower leg becomes injured.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. Dr. Hope will treat your foot needs.

Causes of Heel Pain

● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

- Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  

- Wearing non-supportive shoes

- Weight change         

- Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, AL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot needs.

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