Achilles Tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendon.
Possible Heel Conditions
Information provided for educational purposes only. For diagnosis, individualized treatment, and medical advice please make an appointment to visit our qualified podiatrists. Northwest Foot and Ankle Specialists treats a variety of conditions not limited to what is listed here.
Symptoms
Pain and soreness on the back of the heel or foot that extends up the leg.
Causes
Tightness of the leg muscles, injury, biomechanical abnormalities.
Home Treatments
Ice, gentle massage of the area, stretching exercises, good shoewear and arch support.
Surgery may be required
When to See a Doctor
If the pain persists for more than a month or if it becomes difficult to walk.
Calcaneal (Calcaneus) Fracture
Fracture of the heel bone.
Symptoms
Persistant pain and soreness of the heel bone.
Causes
Fall, injury
Home Treatments
Rest and ice, keep all pressure off of the heel.
Surgery may be required
When to See a Doctor
As soon as possible as some fractures require urgent attention.
Plantar Fasciitis
Inflammation of ligament that supports the arch.
Symptoms
Pain and soreness in the heel, pain is most severe in the morning when stepping out of bed and also following rest.
Causes
Usually mechanical in nature but can be caused by injury.
Home Treatments
Avoid walking barefoot, ice the painful area 20 minutes twice a day, gentle stretching exercises, gentle massage to the area. Try a plantar fasciitis sleeve or gentle compression. Supportive shoes and arch support can be beneficial.
Surgery may be required, but most of the time it will not be needed
When to See a Doctor
If problem persists more than one month.
Haglund's Deformity
Abnormality of heel bone.
Symptoms
Bony prominence on the back of the heel.
Causes
Usually genetic but can be caused by tightness of the Achilles tendon and aggravated by local irritation from improper shoewear.
Home Treatments
Gentle stretching exercises, padded heel cup, appropriate shoewear, and arch support.
Surgery may be required
When to See a Doctor
Pain persists more than 1 month