Your Feet Can Hurt for Many Reasons
Human bodies are astounding; they consist of the perfect blend of fluids, hormones, muscles, and bone tissue. Unique cushioning is provided in our joints and at vital regions where weight-related pressure points exist. However, when this fragile harmony is interrupted by injury or certain conditions, excruciating pain can be the result. Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are a couple of conditions of the feet that can impair immobility in people.
Areas Affected by Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis
A heel spur is a pointed protrusion of bone that grow out of the heel bone (calcaneus). They can be located either under or on the rear of the heel. When a heel spur is present, it can cause inflammation and tearing of the softer foot tissues, which is made worse with activity, or even from simply standing on the afflicted foot. When the location of the body growth is on the back side of the heel, it can bother the Achilles tendon and cause tenderness and swelling in that area. MedicineNet reports on their site that pushing off the bottom of the foot makes this specific condition worse. Alternatively, when the heel spur is located under the heel, it irritates the plantar fascia ligament, thus bringing on a condition called plantar fasciitis. MedicineNet describes this injury as being more of a problem when standing or walking.
Causes of Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis
Nevertheless, the majority of cases are because of repetitive motion and excessive stretching of the plantar fascia ligament due to athletic activity, and can also be caused by heavy lifting. Plantar-Fasciitis.org reports that arthritis or diabetes can make it more likely for someone to develop either of these problems. They warn that shoes that are too tight can also cause painful foot problems.
How to Treat Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis
The objectives in treatment of these injuries are to lessen the inflammation of muscles and ligaments as well as prevent re-injury. According to foot specialist Dr. William Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR, this can be done in several ways:
- Use of the best orthotics available to properly align the foot and take pressure off of the affected areas
- As a last resort, surgery to remove the heel spur to allow for tissue and tendon healing
- The use of circular shoe inserts for the heel
- Use of anti-inflammatory medicines
- Appropriately-cushioned shoes
- Applying ice on the affected areas
