Overview

As the largest of the foot’s 26 bones, the heel is often susceptible to pain and injury due to its position and vital functions. Common heel pain itself is rarely a severe medical condition, but it can be a sign of something a little more serious. For example, discomfort on the underside usually stems from plantar fasciitis, while pain on the back of the heel is frequently associated with Achilles tendinitis. 

Most Common Causes

As mentioned above, the following two conditions are the most common causes of intense heel pain:

Plantar Fasciitis – An inflammation of the plantar fascia connective tissue, which runs from the heel to the front of the foot. Specifically, plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia tendon becomes strained over time. This can be due to a number of different reasons, but the most common is athletic activity. On the other hand, improperly fitting shoes with insufficient arch support will also aggravate the plantar fasciitis and cause increased heel pain.

Achilles Tendinitis – An inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which runs down the backside of the ankle and into the heel. Achilles tendinitis occurs near the heel bone when this sensitive tendon is strained, usually over a long period of time. This condition is most frequently seen in older individuals who still walk and run for exercise.

Other Causes

Heel Spurs – A hard, unnatural growth on the bottom of the heel bone that is often associated with plantar fasciitis.

Heel Bursitis – This is an inflammation or swelling of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel – under the Achilles tendon. It is most often caused by wearing shoes that put too much pressure on this part of the foot or wearing heels that do not properly fit.

Arthritis – More specifically, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Stress Fracture – A fracture, or break in the heel bone, caused by repetitive stress. This particular cause is most commonly seen amongst competitive athletes and runners.

Relief Products

Ossur Airform Night Splint – A multi-strap ankle and forefoot brace that’s meant to be worn during sleep in order to stretch and naturally reposition your foot overnight. It’s a simple, effective method for those who’d like to avoid the morning aches and pains associated with plantar fasciitis.

Adjustable Heel Lift – A simple orthotic insert that easily slips into any shoe and strategically positions your heel to deliver pain-relief to those with flat feet or plantar fasciitis.

Active Orthotics Custom Made Insole – These premium orthotic insoles are specially designed by Betterfrom’s foot health experts to acclimate to your foot and accommodate the shoe’s shape. The results? Maximum heel support and decreased pain. These inserts are ideal for those with an active lifestyle.

Other Relief Options

• Wear shoes that fit properly – avoid those that are too tight or too lose around the toe, forefoot or heel.
• Depending on the activity at hand, be sure to wear the appropriate athletic shoes. It’s pretty simple: don’t wear dress shoes if you’re going to play soccer.
• Stretch your Achilles thoroughly before exercising.
• If swelling occurs or persists, use ice to reduce the inflammation – not heat.