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Heel Spur / Plantar Fasciitis |
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Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems. Heel pain is felt under the heel when standing or walking. The pain usually comes from the thick fibrous tissue, called the plantar fascia, which runs the length of the arch on the sole of the foot. Plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of this tissue, is the most common cause of heel pain. The longer the inflammation lasts, the greater the chance that a bone spur will form where the fibrous tissue attaches to the heel bone.
Symptoms of heel spurs and plantar fasciitis usually develop slowly. Pain is worse when first rising in the morning and diminishes during the day. The pain increases if weight-bearing activities are performed. Severe cases may have numbness on the outside of the foot. A lump can sometimes be felt when a heel spur develops. Shoes with poor arch supports and very stiff soles can contribute to the condition. Excessive force and stretching of the plantar fascia causes heel spurs to form. Distance runners are prone to chronic cases of plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Others at risk are those who have: - excessive pronation (which is bearing weight on the inside surface of the foot)
- flat feet
- knock-knees
- high arches or
- tight calf muscles
TREAT HEEL PAIN BY: - stopping the activity that caused the problem
- applying ice to the area. It is generally recommended ice be applied for 15-20 mins every 1-2 hours for the first 48-72 hours after onset.
- relieving pain and inflammation with pain relief medication (e.g. ibuprofen or aspirin).
- wearing a 3 mm heel wedge inside both shoes or wearing high heels
- not walking in bare feet
- continuing non-weight bearing activities like swimming or cycling.
- stretching the plantar fascia by rolling arch of foot over a rolling pin or deodorant or similar spray can.
- stretching the calf muscles.
Seek medical attention if there is no relief. Recovery time may take several months to a year. Severe cases may need surgery for recovery. Article #7537 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
