Heel Pain

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Heel pain is discomfort in one or both heels.

What is going on in the body?

Heel pain occurs when the bones, muscles, or other soft tissues of the heel are inflamed or damaged.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Following are some of the factors that can cause heel pain:

  • Achilles tendinitis, which is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon that runs down the back of the heel
  • a bruise from hitting the heel against a hard object
  • gout, which is a disease that causes painful joints
  • inflammatory bursitis, which is a condition caused by the tendon rubbing on the back of a shoe
  • medial calcaneal neuroma, a condition in which the nerve on the inside and bottom of the heel becomes irritated and enlarged
  • a misshapen heel bone
  • plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the sole of the foot
  • rheumatoid arthritis, a severe form of arthritis that causes pain, swelling, inflammation, and, sometimes, destruction of the joints
  • Reiter's syndrome, a type of arthritis that causes pain, swelling and redness in the joints

    • Very rarely, cancer involving the bone can cause heel pain.

    Symptoms & Signs

    What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

    The main symptoms are discomfort and pain in the heel. These symptoms become acute when the person goes about his or her daily routine, especially if exercise is involved. The person may also have swelling or bruising of the soft tissues of the heel.

    Diagnosis & Tests

    How is the condition diagnosed?

    Sometimes people who know what is causing their pain and where it is coming from are able to diagnose their problem. But some conditions are not so obvious and will require medical help. Usually a healthcare provider can quickly make the diagnosis with a simple exam.

    Sometimes, X-rays or special studies, such as bone scans, computerized tomography or CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging or MRI, are used. If the problem involves inflammation, an evaluation for this condition, including a complete arthritis workup, may be necessary.

    Prevention & Expectations

    What can be done to prevent the condition?

    To prevent heel pain, avoid activities that can damage the heel. Also, choose footwear that is right for the activity being performed. For instance, it is helpful to wear a thick-soled boot when digging with a shovel and sturdy, supportive running shoes when jogging.

    What are the long-term effects of the condition?

    Most heel pain resolves quickly with treatment. But if the heel pain is an early sign of arthritis, it could eventually affect other parts of the body.

    What are the risks to others?

    Heel pain is not contagious and poses no risk to others.

    Treatment & Monitoring

    What are the treatments for the condition?

    Treatment begins by protecting the affected area from further irritation. Other measures used to treat heel pain include the following:

  • anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin
  • ice packs
  • physical therapy
  • proper-fitting footwear

    • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Anti-inflammatory medications can cause stomach upset and allergic reactions.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Heel pain from an acute injury usually clears up without further problem. Heel pain chronic conditions such as gout or arthritis may require lifelong treatment.

    How is the condition monitored?

    Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

    Attribution

    Author:Bill O'Halloran, DPM
    Date Written:
    Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
    Edit Date:04/30/01
    Reviewer:William M. Boggs, MD
    Date Reviewed:08/09/01