The heel is located at the back of a foot and is based on the projection of the calcaneous or heel bone, which is found behind the articulations of the pones of the posterior leg. The heel is the part of the body which bears the most weight, thus it is the most calloused body part. Because of its weight bearing capacity, the causes of heel pain are usually due to injuries from standing, walking, running, and other foot activities.
The symptoms of heel pain, which is associated with the plantar fasciitis, are pain experienced during prolonged walking and standing, usually worse upon arising, and pain that increases over a period of time. Other medical conditions that may result to chronic heel pain include arthritis, bumps and bruises, wounds, peripheral neuropathy, callus, high impact heel activity, improperly fitting shoes, prolonged standing, or worse, tumor or malignancy.
The most common cause of heel pain is the plantar fasciitis, an irritation and inflammation of the tissue that forms in the arch of the feet. However, other factors that can cause heel pain are abnormalities of the skin, nerves, bones, blood vessels and soft tissues. Due to excessive activity to this part, the risk of pain and trauma is high.
Those who are at risk to this condition are people who have excessive activity using their heels, those who does prolonged walking and standing, and especially women that wears high-heeled and poorly fitted shoes. Heel pain should never be neglected as it can greatly alter daily activities. Heel pain is sometimes relieved by rest and massage, however, when left untreated, may cause serious problems.
If the person happens to experience the above mentioned symptoms, he is advised to consult an orthopaedic doctor and/or a licensed physical therapist immediately.
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