Heel Conditions
Heel Pain
Heel pain is a common and can significantly impact daily activities. Often caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis, heel pain manifests as discomfort or sharp sensations in the underside or back of the heel. Understanding its causes and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial for alleviating discomfort and restoring mobility.
Plantar Fasciopathy
Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent and often debilitating foot condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition is characterized by inflammation, irritation, or microtears in the plantar fascia, leading to intense heel pain, especially during the first steps after waking up or after prolonged periods of rest. It is often misdiagnosed as a heel spur.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is excessive strain on the plantar fascia, often resulting from overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues like flat feet. Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are also at an increased risk. The symptoms can range from a sharp, stabbing pain to a dull ache in the heel, impacting daily activities and diminishing overall foot function.
Treatment
Effective management of plantar fasciitis involves a multidimensional approach. In our clinic, we find it important to know the extent of the inflammation before establishing a treatment plan that often include pain management, offloading and footwear advice and Achilles tendon stretching. Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are paramount in addressing plantar fasciitis and preventing chronic issues. We provide personalized guidance, helping individuals regain mobility, alleviate pain, and restore optimal foot health. Regular check-ups and proactive foot care can significantly contribute to overall well-being and prevent the recurrence of plantar fasciitis.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendonitis is a prevalent condition that frequently brings patients to our office. It involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the body, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often occurs due to overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues like “tight calf muscles”.
Patients with Achilles tendonitis commonly experience symptoms such as pain and stiffness along the back of the heel and lower calf, particularly during physical activity or upon waking in the morning. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe issues like tendon degeneration, tendon tear or the development of a painful bump called a Haglund’s deformity.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
This condition often occurs due to overuse, sudden increases in physical activity, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues like “tight calf muscles”.
Treatment
We are experts in diagnosing and managing Achilles tendonitis. Treatment options may include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physiotherapy, custom orthotics to address biomechanical problems, and the use of a heel lift to reduce tension on the tendon. In some cases, more advanced therapies like shockwave therapy or even surgical intervention may be necessary to alleviate pain and promote healing. We got you covered to refer you to the right health professional if needed. Please keep in mind that early intervention and a tailored treatment plan are crucial in addressing Achilles tendonitis effectively, so don’t hesitate to book an appointment if you suspect having Achilles tendonitis or if it is resistant to the treatments you have already undertaken.
Nerve Compression
Baxter’s nerve also known as the inferior calcaneal nerve is vulnerable to entrapment because of its course, and the most common location is the tight fascia of the abductor hallucis and the medial aspect of the quadrates plantae muscle. It is often misdiagnosed with plantar fasciitis.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are a radiological manifestation of the chronic tension applied on the bone. It can be from the plantar fascia or the Achilles tendon. It is often misdiagnosed as the source of heel pain, but it is not unless the spur is fractured.
Periosteal Reaction
A periosteal reaction of the heel bone (calcaneus) needs to be visualised by imaging. It is often a consequence of repetitive trauma and poor shock absorption with high-arched feet.
Sever's Diseases
Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common heel condition affecting children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel, known as the calcaneal apophysis, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension from the Achilles tendon. Typically observed in physically active children involved in sports, Sever’s disease presents with heel pain and tenderness, especially during activities like running or jumping.
Patients with Achilles tendonitis commonly experience symptoms such as pain and stiffness along the back of the heel and lower calf, particularly during physical activity or upon waking in the morning. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe issues like tendon degeneration, tendon tear or the development of a painful bump called a Haglund’s deformity.
Cause
Treatment
Cause
Podiatrists understand that the growing bones in children are more vulnerable to stress, making early detection and intervention crucial. The condition is self-limiting as the growth plate eventually fuses, but effective management is essential to alleviate pain and prevent long-term complications.
Treatment
Podiatric care for Sever’s disease often involves recommending rest from aggravating activities, heel cushions or orthotic inserts to reduce pressure, and stretching exercises to improve flexibility. Education on proper footwear and activity modifications is also provided. Monitoring the child’s foot health during growth spurts is essential for preventing prolonged discomfort and ensuring a smooth transition through this common developmental phase. Parents are encouraged to seek professional podiatric guidance for tailored treatment plans, fostering a supportive environment for healthy foot development in their growing children.
Huglund's Deformity
Haglund deformity is a bony enlargement at the back of the heel. This condition is characterized by a prominence that can lead to irritation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon and surrounding soft tissues including skin. Commonly associated with friction in work boots, Haglund deformity causes pain, swelling, and the formation of a noticeable bump on the heel. X-ray imaging becomes important to evaluate the extent of the bony enlargement and have a treatment plan accordingly. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions are key to effective management.
