Expert Diagnosis & Treatment for Heel Pain

What Causes Heel Pain?

The heel bone or calcaneus, is the largest bone in the human foot. It anchors the muscles used to move and flex the toes and is the starting point of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. The heel works with other structures in the foot to evenly distribute body weight when standing, walking or running.

Any activity that puts excess pressure on the foot can cause heel pain. Common lifestyle causes include:

• Excess weight
• Standing for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• Participation in sports that require running and jumping
• Abnormal gait or walking style
• Wearing poorly fitted shoes that lack cushioning or arch support

Some of the most common medical conditions that can cause or contribute to heel pain include:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Flat feet
• Foot and ankle arthritis
• Heel fractures
• Plantar fasciitis
• Stress fractures

Diagnosis & Treatment of Heel Pain

To find the most effective treatment for your heel pain, the exact cause must be identified. The orthopedic specialists at University Hospitals will take a complete medical and lifestyle history, perform a physical exam, and order imaging tests as needed to diagnose your condition and develop an effective treatment plan.

Most painful heel conditions can be managed with nonsurgical treatments that emphasize pain relief and reduce inflammation. Depending on your diagnosis, treatments may include:

• Steroid injections
• Custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
• Icing and/or heat therapy
• Massage, physical or ultrasound therapy
• Heel stretching exercises

In rare cases, such as heel pain due to a ruptured or torn Achilles tendon, surgery may be recommended.