Little Known Causes of Heel Pain

Problems with your feet can make it difficult to stand, walk, and do the things you need to do every day. Heel pain can be caused by a number of common conditions that affect the bones, ligaments, and tendons of your foot. 

Although heel pain can cause a lot of discomfort and difficulty with movement, there are effective treatment options that can address your pain and get you moving comfortably again.

Leonard Greenwald DPM, is a highly experienced and respected podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon with a medical practice in San Jose, California. Supported by his skilled and friendly staff, Dr. Greenwald offers a full range of services to keep your feet and ankles strong and healthy. He has the treatments you need to relieve your heel pain, whatever the cause. 

Little known causes of heel pain

Heel pain can be very uncomfortable because of the amount of pressure on your heels when you’re standing, walking, running, or doing anything else on your feet. If you’re experiencing heel pain, it’s best to visit a podiatrist who can determine the cause and find a treatment that relieves your discomfort and addresses the cause of your pain. 

The types of pain that can occur in your heel fall into two main categories: those affecting the bottom of your heel and those affecting the back of your heel. Heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, and bruises are some of the most common causes of heel pain. 

Some of the little known causes of heel pain are:

Bursitis

The major joints in your body contain fluid-filled sacs called bursae that cushion tissues in these areas. Bursitis is a condition that causes the bursae to become inflamed, causing swelling, pain, and difficulty moving. It’s typically a temporary condition caused by injury or overuse

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes your body to attack its own tissues. It can cause damage to the lining of your joints, and in some people may affect the lungs, heart, and other systems. A chronic condition, it can’t be cured, but it can be treated with medications, therapy, and surgery if needed.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by damage to the posterior tibial nerve, which is located near your ankle. Compression can cause this nerve to be damaged, causing sharp pain, a burning sensation, or tingling in your feet.

Osteomyelitis

A rare bone infection, osteomyelitis is typically caused by an infection spreading from another part of your body, or one that starts in your bone due to an injury. Risk factors for osteomyelitis include chronic health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease. 

Paget’s disease

Padget’s disease of bone is a chronic condition in which your bones don’t grow and regrow normally, causing them to be softer and bigger than normal. They may not grow in the correct shape and may be more easily broken. 

If you’re experiencing heel pain, the only way to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is to visit a podiatrist. You can set up an appointment with Dr. Greenwald today by calling our office, texting us, or using our convenient online booking system.