Heel pain is a common problem for people of all ages. There are several conditions that cause heel pain. The two most common conditions are called Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs. Providing adequate arch and heel support is the key to reducing inflammation.

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the ligament running from your heel to the ball or your foot (plantar fascia). The bottom or inside of your heel hurts when you stand. The pain can be "hard to describe" and creeps up on you. Plantar Fasciitis does not generally get better by itself and most often becomes worse without attention.

A Heel Spur is a calcium deposit that develops over time into a sharp bony growth under the heel bone. They often result due to improper foot movement during walking or running, poorly fitting shoes and excessive body weight.

As a spur develops the soft tissue in the heel becomes irritated and swells, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain.

The circled area in the diagram is the most common site of heel pain.

Your Podiatrist can help relieve heel pain with advice regarding footwear, exercises and significant arch supports "orthoses" and lifestyle adjustments to relieve the pressure on the heel region.

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SYMPTOMS:CAUSES:
Pain at the base of the heel
(standing on a stone)		 Flat feet
Pain at its worst when first getting out of bedHigh arched feet
Pain, burning, tightness in the arch of the footTight Achilles Tendon
 Worn out shoes or shoes that are too rigid
 Running on soft surfaces
 Sprinting (toe running) hill running