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What is Arch and Heel Pain?

Arch and heel pain is a common condition treated by podiatrists and can be caused by a variety of problems. It can occur in people of all ages and physical fitness and may be acute or chronic in nature.

Pain in your heels can be very debilitating, causing the body to compensate when you walk, leading to knee, hip and lower back pain if left untreated. This condition can also be attributed to heel spurs which are diagnosed on X-ray.

Common Types of Heel and Arch Pain Include:

 

Arch and Heel Pain Snapshot

  • Commonly occurring
  • Can be very painful
  • Easily preventable
  • Easily treatable without surgery
  • Can often be caused by inappropriate footwear, poor foot posture and overactivity

Causes

Causes of Arch and Heel Pain

  • Poor foot biomechanics or abnormal gait.
  • Excessive pressure on the heel bone and the attached tissues.
  • Injury and trauma.
  • Range of motion deficits.
  • Muscle strength imbalances.
  • Tight, overused muscles (i.e calves).
  • Improper training programs/ overtraining.
  • Hard surfaces.
  • Poor footwear.
  • Being overweight.
  • Systemic diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Arch and Heel Pain

  • Symptoms may vary depending on the underlying pathology.
  • Pain, redness, heat, swelling.
  • Difficulties weight-bearing and pain after periods of rest.
  • Reduced mobility and discomfort.
  • Numbness and/or burning sensation.

Treatment

Treatment for Arch and Heel Pain

 

Recovery periods can be 6-8 weeks depending on the cause of your pain and response to treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in your heels and would like to know what the best form of treatment is, speak to a podiatrist at Well Heeled Podiatry.

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