Pain can occur in different areas of the heel including the bottom or the back of the heel. Where heel pain is felt may help determine the cause of the pain. For instance, pain on the bottom of the heel may be due to a stress fracture in the heel bone or inflamed plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Pain in the back of the heel may occur when shoes rub that area repeatedly and form a bony enlargement known as Haglund’s deformity. Heel pain also occurs when the fluid-filled bursa sac behind the ankle becomes inflamed and irritated. Further, heel pain in the back of the foot may be caused by a swollen Achilles tendon or by an irritated growth plate in the heel of a growing child is known as Sever’s disease. No matter what the cause of your heel pain may be, a chiropodist can diagnose it and come up with an effective plan to treat it.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs

• Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness 

• Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time 

• Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking

• Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.