Why Feet Can Hurt

Human bodies are truly amazing; they are the perfect balance of hormones, fluids, bones and muscles. Unique cushioning is provided in our joints and at crucial areas in any place on the body that bears weight. However, when this delicate combination is stopped in its tracks by an injury or physical issue, severe pain can occur. Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are a couple of conditions of the feet that can cause a person to lose mobility.

Why Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis Can Hurt So Much

A heel spur is a pointed portion of bone that has grown out of the heel bone, also known as calcaneus. They can be located either on the underside or on the rear of the heel. When a heel bone spur is present, it can cause swelling and ripping of the muscles of the foot, which is compounded with simple movements or standing on the affected foot. When the bony growth is located behind the heel, it can bother the Achilles tendon and cause pain and inflammation in that region. MedicineNet reports on their site that pushing off the bottom of the foot makes this certain condition worse. On the other hand, when the bony growth is in the area of the bottom of the heel, it bothers the plantar fascia ligament, thus bringing on a condition called plantar fasciitis. MedicineNet describes this ailment as being more of a problem when standing or walking.

The Reasons You May Have Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis

Medical findings suggest that heel spurs can have genetic ties. most times, heel spurs are caused by repeat movements and too much stretch in the arch because of physical activity, and can also be brought on by repeatedly lifting heavy objects. Plantar-Fasciitis.org reports that arthritis or diabetes can make it more likely for someone to develop either of these problems. They also mention that ill-fitting footwear can also be to blame.

Recommended Treatments for Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis

The goals in treatment of these conditions are to decrease the inflammation of muscles and ligaments as well as avoid re-injury. According to foot specialist Dr. William Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR, this can be accomplished in several ways:

• As a last resort, surgical intervention to take out the heel bone spur to allow for tissue and tendon healing
• Use of NSAID pills
• Properly-cushioned shoes
• Regularly icing on the affected regions
• Use of the best orthotic inserts available to realign the foot and take pressure off of the affected areas
• Wearing round, puffy shoe inserts for the heel