Heel pain is a common foot condition that can quickly drain the enjoyment out of everyday activities. Walking, exercising, and working all become more difficult when your feet aren't cooperating with you. Here are some common causes of heel pain, some ways to relieve it and the best ways to prevent it from returning in the future.

What Causes Heel Pain?

The most common type of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia is a broad, flat band of tissue that connects your heel bone with your toes. Repetitive motion and strain often causes it to become weak, painful, and inflamed.

Other types of heel pain include:

• Bursitis: inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the joint
• Heel spurs: bony projections that build up around the joint
• Osteoarthritis: "wear-and-tear” arthritis characterized by a loss of cartilage around the joint
• Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune condition leading to chronic joint inflammation
• Stress fracture: a tiny crack in the bone caused by repetitive motion and impact

These are not the only conditions that can lead to heel pain, and many conditions can have serious consequences if left untreated. If your pain doesn't resolve within a few days, visit your Advanced Foot and Ankle Center in McKinney, TX or Prosper, TX to discuss these issues with one of our qualified specialists.

Many foot conditions are worsened by the way we use our feet day after day. Here are some common reasons your heel pain may become worse:

• Walking, running, or standing for long periods of time. Whether you’re a running enthusiast or simply on your feet a lot for work, your feet are at risk if you don’t give them the care they need.
• Incorrect footwear. Dress shoes and ill-fitting athletic shoes without proper arch support are common culprits of heel pain.
• Tight calf muscles/Achilles tendon. If you carry excessive tension in your calves, it will pull heel bone and cause pain.
• High arches or flat feet. Supportive footwear is essential to prevent problems caused by improper arch support.

How to Relieve Heel Pain

Regardless of the cause of your pain, you can make some simple lifestyle changes to support your treatment.

• Use comfortable and well-fitting footwear for all physical activity
• Ask one of our qualified foot and ankle specialists in McKinney and Prosper, TX  about insoles or other supportive devices
• Get professionally fitted for athletic or walking shoes
• Replace worn-out shoes regularly
• Stretch, massage, and foam roll your calf and foot muscles

Podiatrist in McKinney, TX & Prosper, TX

Heel pain has a variety of causes, and it’s important to understand the root of your pain so you can get the right treatment as quickly as possible. If you’re experiencing heel pain, your foot and ankle specialist in McKinney and Prosper, TX  will help you get back on your feet so you can continue to work and play pain-free. Call today to see one of our qualified foot and ankle specialists at (972) 542-2155 or request your appointment now.