Richmond Hill Foot Clinic & Orthotics - HEEL PAIN
HOMEPAGE – HEEL PAIN
HEEL PAIN
WHAT CAUSES HEEL PAIN?
Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems, affecting thousands of people daily. It can occur in one or both heels and is often most severe first thing in the morning making those first steps especially painful before gradually improving as the day goes on. Two most common causes of heel pain are Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs.
WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the thick band of tissue (called the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. The plantar fascia forms the arch of the foot and acts as a natural shock absorber, helping to support your foot during movement. When excessive tension is placed on the plantar fascia, tiny tears can develop, leading to irritation, inflammation, and pain. This pain is usually felt in the the heel or arch and is often worse with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. It can develop from overuse, poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or excessive strain on the foot.
WHAT IS A HEEL SPUR?
A key sign is experiencing sharp heel pain when you take your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. When you’re resting, the muscles and ligaments in your foot tighten and shorten, which increases tension on the plantar fascia and makes it more sensitive. Once you start walking, the ligament stretches and this can cause a sudden stabbing pain. As you continue to move, the tissue loosens up and the pain usually eases to a dull, persistent ache. However, after standing for long periods or walking a lot, the pain often comes back.
HOW DO I KNOW I HAVE IT?
A key sign is experiencing sharp heel pain when you take your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. When you’re resting, the muscles and ligaments in your foot tighten and shorten, which increases tension on the plantar fascia and makes it more sensitive. Once you start walking, the ligament stretches and this can cause a sudden stabbing pain. As you continue to move, the tissue loosens up and the pain usually eases to a dull, persistent ache. However, after standing for long periods or walking a lot, the pain often comes back.
WHAT CAUSES HEEL PAIN?
Several factors can overstretch the plantar fascia ligament under the foot, including:
- Activities like running, walking, or standing for extended periods
- Weight gain, which puts extra pressure on the bones, nerves, muscles, and ligaments in the feet; plantar fasciitis can also develop during pregnancy
- Aging, as ligaments tend to become tighter and shorter while muscles weaken over time
- Wearing shoes that lack proper support
- Walking barefoot, especially on hard surfaces such as concrete or tiles
- Having low arches, flat feet, or overpronation, where the feet roll inward and arches collapse.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
There are several effective treatments for plantar fasciitis, and during your assessment, we will determine the best approach for you.
Stretching: Specific calf stretches can help improve foot function and relieve tension on the plantar fascia.
Taping: This technique supports the arch, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and easing heel stress.
Shockwave Therapy: Helps decrease inflammation and promotes increased blood flow to aid healing.
Anti-inflammatory medications: These can reduce pain and swelling (always consult your doctor or pharmacist before use).
Orthotic insoles: Custom or over-the-counter insoles provide support, help offload pressure from the heel, and improve foot mechanics over time.
Footwear changes: Wearing proper shoes can correct foot mechanics and reduce excessive strain.
Injection therapy: In some cases, injections may be used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and stimulate blood flow to the affected area.