Heel pain can arise from various causes, and individuals will need different types of foot pain treatment depending on the cause. Often, people have a hard time describing their pain, so we wanted to provide some descriptive language about different common types of heel pain and their characteristics:
Plantar Fasciitis Pain:Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, typically characterized by pain at the bottom of the heel. The pain is often sharp and stabbing, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of sitting or inactivity.
Achilles Tendonitis Pain:Pain in the back of the heel may be indicative of Achilles tendonitis. This pain is often described as a dull ache or stiffness, especially during activities like walking or running.
Heel Spurs Pain:Heel spurs are bony protrusions that can develop on the underside of the heel bone. The pain associated with heel spurs is often described as a stabbing sensation, especially when standing or walking.
Nerve-related Pain:Nerve-related heel pain, such as that caused by conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy, can be characterized by sensations like shooting pain, burning, tingling, or numbness in the heel or surrounding areas.
Bursitis Pain:Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac near the heel, can result in bursitis. The pain is typically described as a localized ache or tenderness at the back or bottom of the heel.
Stress Fracture Pain:Stress fractures in the heel bone can cause deep, throbbing pain that intensifies with weight-bearing activities. The pain may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness.
Sever's Disease Pain (in Children):Common in active children, Sever's disease causes pain at the back of the heel. The pain is often described as aching or soreness, especially during or after physical activity.
Arthritis-related Pain:Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic, throbbing, aching pain in the heel. The pain may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Injury-related Pain:Traumatic injuries, such as contusions, fractures, or sprains, can lead to acute pain in the heel. The nature of the pain varies depending on the type and severity of the injury.
Pro Tip: If the pain you are experiencing is achy, ice it. If it is a throbbing pain, use heat.