Heel pain that worsens every morning upon waking: What are the possible causes?
Disease description:
The shoes are too stiff, causing heel pain every day while walking, but the pain is worse after waking up in the morning. What is the cause of this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Heel pain, particularly noticeable after getting up in the morning, is usually caused by plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band-like structure that connects the heel bone to the toes and plays an important role in supporting the arch and absorbing shock. When this fascia is overstretched or injured, inflammation occurs, causing pain.
Below are common causes of this condition:
1. Repetitive strain: During daily activities such as prolonged walking, running, or standing, the plantar fascia continuously experiences stretching and stress, which can eventually lead to aseptic inflammation. Additionally, blood circulation slows down during nighttime rest, allowing inflammatory substances to accumulate locally, thus making the pain especially evident when getting up in the morning.
2. Heel spurs: When bone spurs develop on the heel bone, they can irritate surrounding tissues, resulting in pain.
3. Obesity: Excess body weight increases the load on the plantar fascia, making it more susceptible to injury and inflammation.
4. Improper footwear: Shoes that are too tight, have excessively high or rigid heels, or alter the normal weight distribution of the foot can easily lead to injury and inflammation of the plantar fascia.
