Common Conditions Causing Heel Pain
We explain 2 common conditions that often lead to heel pain plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
1. Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis refers to an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick fibrous band that connects your heel to the front of your foot. The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot and absorbs pressure, and when it is inflamed or torn, putting pressure on the foot may result in sharp pain. Although the exact cause of plantar fasciitis is not clear, wearing inappropriate shoes, heavy work demands, obesity, running, and abnormal foot mechanics are some of the probable causes.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the bottom of the heel. Which extends into the arch of the foot. The intensity of pain may vary; the pain may be sharp or may feel like widespread soreness in the area surrounding the heel and the arch. A common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain that occurs when you take your first steps in หากคุณสนใจเล่นพนันออนไลน์ที่ดีที่สุด สามารถสมัครสมาชิก UFABET ได้ที่นี่ พร้อมรับโปรโมชั่นพิเศษสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ the morning. The pain usually decreases as the day progresses with use of the foot, but may return after long periods of standing or when you stand up from a sitting posture.
Who is at risk of plantar fasciitis?
While the cause of this condition is unclear, there are factors that can increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis:
- Age – the condition is more common among those aged 40 – 60
- Flat feet, high arches, or tight calf muscles
- Obesity – extra pressure on your feet due to significant body weight
- Medical conditions such as arthritis
- Exercises that repeatedly impacts the plantar fascia such as running
- Standing for extended periods
- Wearing high-heel shoes
2. Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon (tissue connecting a muscle to a bone) in the body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. The Achilles tendon helps you in walking, running and jumping.
Achilles tendonitis refers to the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. It can be caused by any activity. Which causes repetitive stress to the tendon, such as playing basketball or running. A sudden increase in the amount or intensity of exercise activity may also lead to Achilles tendonitis. Another condition which may cause Achilles tendonitis is a bone spur, which are bone projections caused by conditions such as inflammation and degeneration.
Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis
A common sign of Achilles tendonitis includes pain in the back of your heel that worsens with activity. You may also experience severe pain the day after exercising. Other symptoms include swelling along the tendon, and tenderness or stiffness, which may improve with mild activity. However, it is also possible that you may not have any signs or symptoms.
Who is at risk of Achilles tendonitis?
Achilles tendonitis is more common in men than in women. Other risk factors for Achilles tendonitis include old age, a naturally flat arch in the foot, obesity, and tight calf muscles. Medical conditions such as psoriasis or high blood pressure and use of certain medications such as antibiotics may also increase your risk of Achilles tendonitis.