Decoding heel pain

Heel pain can have various causes, and it's essential to differentiate between them to

receive appropriate treatment.

Here are some common heel conditions often confused with plantar fasciitis:

1. Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the underside of the

heel bone. They often occur alongside plantar fasciitis and can contribute to heel

pain. However, the presence of a heel spur does not necessarily mean it's the

primary cause of pain.

2. Achilles Tendinitis: Pain at the back of the heel may be due to Achilles tendinitis.

This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf

muscles to the heel bone. It can result from overuse or improper footwear.

3. Sever's Disease: Common in children and adolescents, Sever's disease is an

inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It can cause significant heel pain during

physical activities.

4. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but

affects the foot. It occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed, leading to

pain, tingling, or burning sensations in the heel and arch.

5. Stress Fractures: Microscopic fractures in the heel bone, known as stress fractures,

can cause localized pain. They are often related to overuse and may be mistaken for

plantar fasciitis.

6. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa sac located between the heel bone and the

Achilles tendon can lead to heel pain. This condition is called retrocalcaneal bursitis.

7. Nerve Entrapment: Entrapment of a nerve in the foot, such as Baxter's nerve, can

cause heel pain. This pain is typically sharp and can be aggravated by pressure on the

affected area.

8. Reactive Arthritis: In some cases, conditions like reactive arthritis (e.g., after a

bacterial infection) can cause heel pain along with other joint symptoms.

9. Haglund's Deformity: This condition involves a bony enlargement at the back of the

heel, which can lead to pain and is often associated with pressure from shoes.

10. Calcaneal Stress Fractures: Unlike plantar fasciitis, which primarily involves soft

tissue, calcaneal stress fractures are actual fractures of the heel bone. These

fractures can cause severe heel pain and may require immobilisation and rest for

healing.

Due to the overlapping symptoms of these conditions, it's crucial to consult a podiatrist or

healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Proper diagnosis is the first step in determining the most effective treatment approach to relieve heel pain and prevent its recurrence.