Sudden Heel Pain can Mean Plantar Fasciitis
Having Discomfort in the Foot Region can be Serious
Mar 29, 2009
Waking up in the morning and finding that walking is difficult due to heel pain is a classic symptom of plantar faciitis. This often occurs for the first time in people 40 to 60 years old. The sharp, burning pain seems to generate from the heel when weight is shifted to the foot involved.
Walking can turn into hobbling when both feet are affected by plantar fasciitis. It is a baffling situation to the one experiencing sudden heel pain because plantar fasciitis can show up for no apparent reason or appear suddenly after a routine athletic activity.
Tackling Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis
The good news is that plantar fasciitis can be addressed and full, painless function restored. While anyone with chronic foot pain should consult a doctor to rule out more serious conditions, such as arthritis or fractures, there are several things a person can do for the heel pain immediately.
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the tough tissue that stretches from the heel along the sole to the toes. The inflammation can be felt as warmth and swelling along the bottom of the foot in addition to a burning sensation or sharp pains in the heel.
The key to treating plantar fasciitis is decreasing the inflammation and preventing re-injury. Icing the swollen areas will reduce heel pain and the inflammation temporarily. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication is helpful in reducing the inflammation internally and stressful physical activities should be postponed until the heel pain is completely gone.
Simple Measures for Plantar Fasciitis and Heal Pain
To promote healing and prevent re-injury, shoe inserts are highly recommended. Any of the commonly available, over-the-counter shoe inserts or heel lifts will take the pressure off the plantar fascia and reduce the pull on the Achilles tendon associated with the heel pain.
Athletic shoes with heavily cushioned soles work also. Use of the cushioned soles is extremely helpful in relieving the pain and reducing the irritation of the inflamed tissues. Continued use of the orthopedic devices as a preventive measure is recommended as recurrences are hard to ward off, unless a specific activity has been identified as the cause of the inflammation.
Often these simple measures resolve the problem. Resistant plantar fasciitis pain needs to be evaluated by a physician. There is the possibility of more serious underlying issues. Taking the steps outlined in this article will help reduce inflammation and relieve heel pain until an examination can be arranged.
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References:
HealthLink (Medical College of Wisconsin)
Walking.About.com
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