Heel pain is one of the most common complaints involving foot pain and injuries. If you are experiencing heel pain, you need to know that it is not a part of natural aging and it will not go away on its own. Plantar fasciitis is often the culprit behind heel pain. This condition occurs when the band of fibrous tissue that runs down the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed. It can occur with injury, but it can also become a chronic condition if not properly and promptly treated.
If you are seeking medical help with your heel pain, it is important to be able to discuss the exact location of the pain. There can be many causes of heel pain, including bursitis, heel spur syndrome, peripheral neuropathy, stress fractures, and rheumatoid arthritis.
There are some things you can do to reduce and eliminate heel pain at home:
- Massage: Use both thumbs and apply deep pressure to the arches of your feet, your heels and your calves. Massage one side for one minute and then switch to the other side.
- Cold therapy: One simple way to apply cold therapy to your feet is to freeze a small water bottle and then roll it under your feet. Roll with one foot for five minutes and then switch to the other foot.
- Stretching: Each morning, you can stretch your feet by standing barefoot close to a wall. With one foot in front of the other, press into the wall with both hands and lean in for 30 seconds. Switch your feet and repeat.
While these methods can help reduce heel pain, it is important to seek medical attention for severe pain or if the pain lingers.