What causes pain in the left heel when stepping on the ground?

Pain when stepping on the ground with the left heel may be caused by prolonged standing, wearing ill-fitting shoes, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, or heel spurs. If pain persists or is accompanied by swelling or limited mobility, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Prolonged Standing: Maintaining a standing posture for extended periods causes the left heel to continuously bear body weight, leading to excessive tension in muscles and fascia. This results in strain and noticeable pain when stepping down, which may slightly improve with rest. It is advised to reduce standing time, take regular breaks to move the feet during work, and soak the feet in warm water for 15 minutes before bedtime to relax local muscles.

2. Ill-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes with thin soles, inadequate arch support, or incorrect sizing can lead to uneven pressure on the left heel. Long-term compression and friction cause pain when stepping, possibly accompanied by soreness or heaviness in the heel. It is recommended to switch to well-fitted shoes with elastic soles and proper arch support, and avoid high heels or flat, hard-soled shoes.

3. Plantar Fasciitis: Repeated strain on the plantar fascia leads to aseptic inflammation. Inflammatory irritation causes pain in the left heel when stepping, particularly severe with the first step in the morning or after prolonged sitting, with symptoms easing after activity. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel, celecoxib capsules, or eperisone hydrochloride tablets to alleviate symptoms.

4. Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon due to overuse or trauma affects the left heel area. Pain occurs when stepping as the tendon is strained under load, becoming more pronounced during running or jumping. Tenderness is often present upon pressing the Achilles tendon. Under medical supervision, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, naproxen sodium tablets, or flurbiprofen gel patches may be used to relieve discomfort.

5. Heel Spurs: Bony growths (osteophytes) on the calcaneus irritate surrounding soft tissues, causing pain in the left heel when walking—worsening with increased activity—and sometimes accompanied by heel swelling. As directed by a physician, medications such as etoricoxib tablets, enteric-coated diclofenac sodium tablets, or Huoxue Zhitong plasters may help improve symptoms.

Daily care includes limiting daily walking distance and avoiding prolonged standing; choosing breathable, comfortable footwear; and massaging the heel for 5 minutes each day to promote blood circulation and reduce pain.