If you experience pain in your heel once you take the first few steps after a period of rest or sleep, you may have plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common forms of heel pain. It occurs when the long ligament on the bottom of your feet (the plantar fascia) that connects your heel with your toes becomes overly stressed, torn, or otherwise damaged. The pain may be stabbing or throbbing and the area may be inflamed. Plantar fasciitis may even be linked or occur in tandem with heel spurs—which are bony growths that form where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. If you have pain in your heel that tends to be worse after periods of rest, make an appointment with a podiatrist for a full examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.