Heel Pain

Heel pain is a very common problematic foot symptom for both adults and children. One of the main reasons for this is that the heel bone (calcaneus) is subject to high levels of impact during weight bearing. The heel is also the attachment point for the achilles tendon and the plantar fascia tendon which are crucial supportive structures used to enable walking and running.

Heel pain can have a sudden onset or can build up over time. Heel pain can often be worse first thing in the morning or after long periods of rest. Symptoms can commonly be described as sharp, burning or aching sensation under the heel bone.

What are the common causes of Heel pain?

Sudden increased activity level - such as running or starting a new job which involves an increased time weight bearing.

Sudden body weight increase - Quickly putting on weight, either through poor life style choices or conditions that retain water (Lymphoedema).

Pregnancy - Pregnancy can trigger many changes in a woman's body including changes to the structure of ligaments and tendons. This change can reduce the foot's ability to accept weight and in turn causes heel pain.

Weak or low tone foot and ankle muscles - weak musculature or low muscle tone at the foot and ankle reduces the body's ability to support body weight. Heel pain is often a consequence of this.

Compensatory movements for another injury - it is common to develop heel pain in a non injured leg while trying to offload the opposite injured leg.

Trauma - calcaneus (heel bone) fractures.

Walking on hard surfaces - can cause inflammation.

Poor choice of footwear - wearing non shock absorbing footwear on hard floors for a prolonged period of time.

Age - Over time the body's natural fatty heel pads wear away leaving the heel bone exposed.

Muscle tightness - foot and ankle muscle tightness can increase tendon stress in the heel or cause compensatory walking patterns.

Growth spurt - children who have sudden growth spurt can have pain in the growth plates of the heel bone (sever’s disease) or muscle tightness which can increase tension in the heel area.

What conditions cause Heel pain?

The conditions that most commonly cause heel pain are;

What are treatments for Heel pain?

Insoles - Insoles can be a very effective form of treatment that can have lasting effects. Insoles can help support and cushion the feet where required, to relieve the stress under the heel.

Splints - Splints can be fitted when resting or at night to stretch tight muscles and tendons.

Physiotherapy - Exercises to strengthen the ankle and foot muscles or retrain poor walking habits can help reduce heel pain.

Injections - Steroid injection can reduce the inflammation of tendons

Surgery - Surgery is normally seen as a last restore but can be an option to correct significant foot deformities or to remove large heel spurs.

Medication - A simple but often effective solution to resuming day to day life while other forms of treatment are implemented

Weight loss - A reduction in body weight can be a hugely significant factor in reducing the load through the heel.

How can Liverpool orthotics help with Heel pain?

Liverpool orthotics provide an accurate diagnosis and provide a range of market leading solutions in the treatment of heel pain.

The first step is to contact us to arrange an assessment with one of our experienced orthotists. This assessment will consist of a full physical examination, including range of movement tests of all joints and muscle power tests.

The orthotist will then be able to identify why you may be experiencing heel pain, if you have an unlying condition and advise what is the best treatment option for you. The orthotist may offer advice on footwear, weight loss and demonstrate specific foot and ankle stretching or strengthening exercises.

Insoles

An insole can often be a very effective treatment option for heel pain. If an insole may be of benefit the orthotist will take a scan or foam impression of your feet to manufacture a pair of insoles.

Liverpool Orthotics provide a range of custom made and ‘off the shelf’ insoles that can offer huge relief for those suffering with heel pain. The insoles can be designed to support the exact contours of the foot and specific padding can be placed under the sensitive areas of the heel to rescue painful symptoms.

Resting Splints

Liverpool Orthotics provide a range of ‘off the shelf’ and custom made resting splints to enable a stretch to tight muscles, fascia or tendons. The splints are designed to be worn at night, after exercise or while resting.

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk