Achilles Tendonitis

Heel pain can also be caused when the Achilles tendon, the tendon attached to the back of the heel bone, is inflamed. While in many cases, the pain is found to be more acute in the area which is just a little above the heel bone, this is not the case with every single patient.

Common symptoms include a nagging pain which can continue for prolonged periods of time, with a slow recovery extending into months or longer in some cases.

Retrocalcaneal Bursitis or Heel Bursitis

When the bursae (fluid-filled sacs which essentially cushion the joints) are inflamed, it can cause heel pain. Common symptoms of the condition include a sharp pain at the back of the heel, swelling and stiffness around the heel area, pain in the calf muscles while walking or running, and redness or warmth at the back of the heel.

Stress Fractures

Sometimes heel pain can be caused by stress fractures of the foot and ankle. The pain is triggered by a small crack in the bone or extreme bruising of the bone which is often a result of repetitive physical activity. Although stress fractures are more common in athletes like long-distance runners, it is not limited to just this group.

A change in the intensity of a workout, change in physical workouts or activity, or even conditions such as osteoporosis which tend to weaken the bone structure, can lead to stress fractures.

When to Seek Help for Heel Pain

Medical attention is necessary under any of the following conditions:

  • If you find no improvement in the level of pain and other symptoms (swelling, tenderness) even after giving the area enough rest, applying ice packs, and taking over the counter pain medication.
  • If you find it difficult to walk or apply weight on the affected part.
  • If the pain in your heel continues for more than 3-4 days.
  • You feel the pain mostly while resting or it regularly occurs at night.
  • In addition to pain, you notice other symptoms such as swelling, tenderness, and redness at the back of the foot.
  • If there is any sign of an infection or if you develop a fever or notice any other unusual symptom(s), you should seek medical attention immediately.

Dealing With Heel Pain

An accurate diagnosis is an important aspect of effective treatment and successful recovery.

Keep in mind that certain conditions which cause heel pain can be far more serious and lead to different sets of complications. And while in most cases, rest, stretching, and simple exercises, and application of ice packs can provide relief, in other cases, a more detailed and specific treatment plan might be required.

Are You Or A Family Member Suffering With Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?

If you're suffering from plantar fasciitis or heel pain you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!

Dr. P. Roman Burk
Providing experienced private practice podiatry services in the Caldwell and Meridian, ID area since 2007.