Pain in the heel when walking, no pain when not walking - what's the cause?

Generally, heel pain while walking that subsides when not walking may be caused by inappropriate footwear, prolonged standing, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or heel spurs. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific explanations are as follows:

1. Inappropriate Footwear

Footwear that is too small, poorly shaped, or has overly rigid soles may cause the heel to be compressed or rubbed during walking, resulting in pain. Improper footwear can lead to uneven pressure on the heel, causing localized tissue compression and friction, which may trigger inflammatory reactions and pain. When walking stops, the heel is no longer under pressure, and the pain typically subsides. It is recommended to switch to comfortable, loose, and breathable shoes to avoid footwear that is too tight or too stiff.

2. Prolonged Standing

Extended periods of standing or walking may cause continuous pressure on the heels, leading to localized tissue fatigue and injury. Excessive pressure on the heel can impair local blood circulation, causing tissue hypoxia and nutritional deficiency, which may result in inflammatory reactions and pain. Soaking the feet in warm water for 30 minutes, one to two times daily, may help improve foot blood circulation and relieve pain.

3. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is caused by repeated strain and injury to the plantar fascia due to prolonged walking or running. The plantar fascia bears body weight during walking or running and is prone to inflammation from overuse. Inflammation may cause thickening and fibrosis of the fascia, leading to pain. When walking stops, the plantar fascia is no longer under stress, and the pain usually subsides. Pain in the heel and sole may gradually develop when standing and walking after waking up or after prolonged rest. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as celecoxib capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or acetaminophen tablets, may be used under medical guidance to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

4. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis results from repeated strain on the Achilles tendon, causing inflammation of the tendon and surrounding tissues. The Achilles tendon bears body weight and impact during walking or running and is prone to wear and inflammation from overuse. Inflammation may lead to thickening and stiffness of the Achilles tendon, resulting in pain. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the Achilles tendon area. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, or celecoxib capsules may be used under medical supervision.

5. Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are caused by tendon injury or excessive joint strain, leading to gradual joint degeneration or aging and the formation of bony projections (osteophytes). These bone spurs may irritate surrounding tissues, triggering inflammatory reactions and pain. During walking, pressure on the heel aggravates the irritation of surrounding tissues, intensifying the pain. When walking stops, the heel is no longer under pressure, and the pain typically subsides. Symptoms may also include redness, swelling, and tenderness. Medications such as acetaminophen tablets, glucosamine sulfate capsules, or bone spur pills may be used under medical advice.

In daily life, choose shoes with soft soles to reduce pressure on the soles of the feet. Avoid excessive physical activity and ensure a proper balance between work and rest.