Heel pain is a common complaint amongst millions of people. Heel pain is often a very stubborn condition that oftentimes limits the ability to walk comfortably.
There may be several reasons or causes for heel pain. Treatments will vary due to the nature of heel pain. The typical course of treatment may begin with ice, rest, stretching, oral anti-inflammatory medications, topical pain relievers, and physical therapy. Stubborn, long-term heel pain may benefit from injections.
Not all heel pain should be treated the same as there are several causes. There is a widely used term known as “The heel pain triad“, which describes three causes of heel pain such as
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel fracture and
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Plantar Fasciitis is, by far, the most common heel pain out of the heel pain triad. Most patients will also call heel pain plantar fasciitis, or heel spur syndrome. Nevertheless, it is imperative that patients with heel pain seek the appropriate medical examination, and thorough work-up by their nearest foot and ankle specialist, or podiatrist.
