SITE INDEX
 
INFO GO SHOP CONTACT US SEARCH BASKET CHECKOUT
FOOT CARE SHOP
Go
Go Shop Index
Go
Go Odour & Athlete's Foot
Go
Go Blisters & Bunions
Go
Go Calluses & Corns
Go
Go Warts & Verrucas
Go
Go Ankle Conditions
Go
Go Foot Skincare
Go
Go Toe & Nail Care
Go
Go Toe Protection
Go
Go Insoles and Orthotics
Go
Go Socks & Hosiery
Go
Go In-Shoe Comfort
Go
Go Shoe Accessories
Go

EDUCATIONAL CONTENT
Go
Go Articles index
Go
Go Product profiles
Go
Go Website news
Go
Go Related websites
Go

FOOT CARE FOCUS
Go
Go Foot care for dancers
Go
Go Diabetic foot care
Go
Go Foot care for runners
Go
Go Foot care for walkers
Go
Go Foot health at work
Go
PRODUCT FINDER


Product search













 

 

Heel pain - Bursitis & Plantar Fasciitis
Back to: Foot Problems & Conditions

HEEL PAIN

3 different types of heel pain:

  • General Heel Pain Syndrome

  • Busitis

  • Plantar Fasciitis

Heel Pain Syndrome is caused by repetitive pressure placed on the heel of the foot when walking, which causes soreness of the heel.

"Itis" usually refers to the inflammation of a certain part of the body, therefore Bursitis refers to the constant irritation of the natural cushion that supports the heel of the foot (the bursa). Bursitis is often associated with Plantar Fasciitis, which affects the arch and heel of the foot.

Plantar Fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the tissues connected to the heel bone, due to excessive pulling and stretching of the fibrous bands that support the arch of the foot. Continuation of this irritation can lead to heel pain, arch pain or a bony growth on the bottom of the heel bone called a "heel spur". Another condition related to Plantar Fasciitis is swelling on both sides of the Achilles tendon (see Achilles tendonitis)

 

Causes

Bursitis and Plantar Fasciitis can occur when a person increases their levels of physical activity or when the heel's fat pad becomes thinner, providing less protection to the foot.

Other causes can include:

  • Ill fitting shoes

  • Obesity

  • Biomechanical problems (e.g. mal-alignment of the foot, including over-pronation)

  • Gout

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

 

Prevention & treatment of heel pain:

Arch supports and orthotics (special insoles) are the best treatment for this type of condition as they gently support the longitudinal arch of the foot allowing it to settle into a more natural position.

Arch supports or adhesive pads can also help to strengthen the arch but orthotics may be a more permanent solution. An orthotic device (special insole) such as a heel cup or heel cradle will help to absorb shock to the heel by raising the heel, which will redistribute pressure and provide a cushion for the plantar fascia. If the heel pain is caused by over pronation then an orthotic with medial posting that supports the arch will correct over pronation preventing further heel pain.

Appropriate footwear is a key consideration in preventing heel pain; therefore shoes must be spacious and supportive.


Plantar Fasciitis and Bursitis can also be treated by:

  • Cold presses or ice packs

  • Anti-inflammatory tablets

  • Cushioning heel pads

  • Massaging the foot / muscle stimulation

  • Stretching exercises

  • Insoles or orthotics

 

Recommended products


 

 





0151 280 4555
Copyright Foothealthcare.com - All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form
or medium without express written permission from Foothealthcare.com is prohibited.

Disclaimer l About Us l Privacy Statement l Press & Media



Powered By WorldPay