What Causes Severe Heel Pain?

Heel Pain

Severe heel pain can be caused by various conditions, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis: This is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.
  • Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, can cause pain in the back of your heel.
  • Heel Spurs: These are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis but can also occur on their own.
  • Stress Fractures: Hairline cracks in the heel bone can cause significant pain, especially with weight-bearing activities.
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, this condition involves compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through a tunnel in the ankle, leading to heel pain and other symptoms.
  • Sever’s Disease: This is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, typically occurring during periods of rapid growth when the heel bone is not fully developed.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located near the heel, can cause pain and swelling.
  • Bone Spurs: Over time, calcium deposits can build up on the underside of the heel bone, causing pain and discomfort.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune condition can cause inflammation and pain in multiple joints, including the heel.
  • Nerve Entrapment: Compression of nerves in the foot or ankle can cause heel pain, such as with entrapment of the medial calcaneal nerve.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you’re experiencing severe heel pain. Treatment may involve rest, stretching exercises, orthotics, physical therapy, medications, or in severe cases, surgery.

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