There are several reasons why heel pain can develop, and one cause is heel pad syndrome. While heel pads break down due to normal use and aging, excessive wear and tear or injury can cause the heel pads to shrink in size. This condition can also result from obesity, other health or foot conditions, or from wearing poorly cushioned shoes. Heel pads are like shock absorbing cushions in the heels. They are composed of fat and flexible, but tough fibers. They not only absorb shock from the impact of standing and mobility, they help to distribute the body weight and protect the bones and joints in the foot. With this syndrome, the heel pads lose their elasticity and shock-absorbing capacity, and severe pain in the middle of the heel can develop. It can feel similar to a bad bruise without being visible. The good news is that this is a treatable condition which may improve with exercise. Since it is difficult to distinguish one cause of heel pain from another, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment for your particular heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.