Main causes of heel pain and treatment options

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Chen Jian

Introduction

In general, heel pain is mainly caused by aging, wearing ill-fitting shoes, overuse of the feet, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, and other similar factors. Prolonged standing, walking, or exercising—especially while wearing improper footwear—places excessive pressure on the muscles and ligaments of the soles, leading to heel pain. Rest, ice application, local massage, and appropriate physical therapy can help alleviate the pain and inflammation.

Generally, heel pain is mainly caused by aging, ill-fitting shoes, overuse of the feet, calcaneal spurs, and Achilles tendinitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation at a hospital is recommended, followed by general treatments and medication under a physician's guidance. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Aging

With aging, the fat pad on the sole of the foot becomes thinner, reducing its ability to absorb shock, which increases pressure on the plantar fascia and bones, causing pain. Wearing shoes with good support and cushioning, performing foot massage and stretching exercises can help strengthen foot muscles and improve flexibility.

2. Ill-fitting Shoes

Shoes that are too small, too tight, or have overly hard soles can increase friction and pressure on the heel, damaging local tissues and causing foot pain. It is recommended to choose well-fitting, comfortable shoes with soft soles.

3. Overuse of the Feet

Extended periods of standing, walking, or exercising, especially while wearing inappropriate footwear, can place excessive pressure on the foot muscles and ligaments, causing heel pain. Rest, ice application, local massage, and appropriate physical therapy can help alleviate pain and inflammation.

4. Calcaneal Spur

Calcaneal spur is caused by micro-injuries to the ligaments and tendons at their attachment point on the heel bone due to repeated stretching of the plantar fascia. Continuous calcification and ossification at this site result in bone spur formation. The spur can irritate surrounding tissues, causing the aforementioned symptoms, which may worsen during walking or standing. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, Huoxue Zhitong capsules (blood-activating and pain-relieving capsules), and celecoxib capsules for treatment.

5. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon and its surrounding membranes are damaged, leading to partial fiber tears, degeneration, or even calcification, resulting in localized congestion and swelling that causes pain. Symptoms may include impaired walking and increased pain. It is recommended to use medications such as swelling and pain-relieving plasters, Yunnan Baiyao aerosol, and etoricoxib tablets as directed by a physician.

In daily life, it is advisable to rest appropriately and avoid activities that place excessive strain on the heels, such as prolonged standing, walking, or running.

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Beware of These Four Conditions When Experiencing Foot Sole Pain

There is no medical advice suggesting that heel pain should raise alarm for four specific diseases. Heel pain may be caused by factors such as ill-fitting shoes, overexertion, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetic foot. It is important to choose appropriate footwear, maintain correct posture, avoid excessive physical activity and obesity, control diet to prevent conditions like gout, and pay attention to foot health.

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What causes pain in the back of the heel?

1. Improper footwear: Shoes that are too tight, too stiff, or have uneven soles can cause pressure and friction on the heel. Pain usually occurs at the area where the shoe contacts the heel and may be accompanied by localized redness, swelling, and tenderness. Patients should switch to properly fitting shoes and may also soak their feet in warm water or apply heat using a heating pad or physical therapy device.