Heel pain

Causes of heel pain

The most frequent cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the band of muscle which runs from the heel to the middle of the foot. Other common causes include flat feet, a swollen heel pad (the soft area on the underside of the heel) and stress fractures. Less common causes include Severs disease (this only affects children aged between 8 and 12 years), tarsal tunnel syndrome which is caused by the suppression of the tibial nerve and Achilles tendonosis (pressure on the Achilles tendon).

Treating heel pain

Most causes of heel pain can be treated with rest and over the counter pain relief. It may also be beneficial to do specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon.

Preventing heel pain

Try to exercise regularly and make sure shoes are supportive; this will help to support the foot and strengthen the surrounding muscles and tendons.

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