Heel Pain

That First Step in the Morning: Dealing with Heel Pain?

Let's talk about that sharp pain under your heel, a condition often related to Plantar Fasciitis. This is actually one of the most common issues that brings people to see a chiropodist or foot specialist.

What does it look and feel like?

The discomfort is typically pinpointed to the underside of your heel area. One of the most telling signs is that the pain feels significantly worse during your very first steps after waking up in the morning, or after you've been sitting or resting for an extended period. While it might lessen slightly as you get moving, the pain can often return or worsen with prolonged standing or activity.

Potential Complications & Related Issues:

It's important to address this type of heel pain. If the inflammation and strain on the plantar fascia continue without proper treatment, the body may react by forming a small bony protrusion known as a heel spur where the fascia attaches to the heel bone. While the spur itself is often just a sign of chronic stress and usually doesn't cause pain on its own (the pain typically comes from the inflamed fascia), its presence indicates that the condition has been ongoing.

How does Heel Pain Happen?

This common form of heel pain is caused by inflammation resulting from overuse or excessive strain on the plantar fascia. This fascia is a tough, fibrous band of tissue running along the sole of your foot, connecting your heel bone to the base of your toes. When it's overworked, tiny micro-tears can develop, particularly at the point where it attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). This damage triggers inflammation and the pain you feel.

Key Takeaways about Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis):

• What it is: A very common condition causing pain under the heel, typically due to inflammation of the plantar fascia.

• Key Symptom: Heel pain that is most intense during the first steps taken in the morning or after a period of rest.

• The Cause: Inflammation resulting from overuse and the development of micro-tears in the plantar fascia, especially where it attaches to the heel bone.

• Potential Consequence: If left untreated or not managed properly, heel spurs (bony growths) may form as a result of the chronic inflammation, although the spur itself is often not the primary source of pain.

Getting Treatment and Relief:

Heel pain can really interfere with your daily life, but you don't have to just endure it. Effective treatments are available to help you get back on your feet comfortably. Here at York Foot & Ankle Clinic, we frequently diagnose and manage conditions like Plantar Fasciitis. We strongly encourage you to book an appointment. This allows us to thoroughly assess your specific condition, understand the factors contributing to your pain, and discuss the best treatment options to provide relief and resolve the underlying issue for you.

Forefoot Pain

If you are experiencing pain or inflammation in the ball of your foot, you may have metatarsalgia aka Forefoot Pain. This condition is especially prevalent in physically active individuals as it may be caused by repeat impact on the ball of the foot while running and jumping. 

Symptoms you may experience from this condition can include:

• Sharp pain or dull ache just behind the toes on the ball of the foot.

• Pain that worsens while walking, running or jumping and improves when at rest.

• Numbness or pain in the toes.

• Pain in the feet that worsens when barefoot.

While occasionally one singular cause for metatarsalgia, it is typically caused by several factors, including:

• Improper foot alignment

• Improper walking mechanics

• Unusual foot shape

• Hammertoe

• Intense training and activity

• Bunions

• Excess weight

• Tight shoes

• Morton’s Neuroma

• Stress fractures
  
  

Sometimes pain in the foot can be healed with a day or two of rest, some ice and over the counter pain medication. However, if your pain is severe or ongoing, it may be time to see a chiropodist.