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Heel
Pain
Heel pain is a common condition in which
weight bearing on the heel causes extreme discomfort.
CAUSE
There are two different categories of heel pain. The first is caused by an
over-use repetitive stress. Over-use repetitive stress refers to a
soreness resulting from too much impact on a specific area of the foot.
This condition, often referred to as “heel pain syndrome”, can be caused
from shoes with heels that are too low, a thinned out fat pad in the heel
area, or from a sudden increase in activity.
Plantar fasciitis, a very common diagnosis of heel pain, is usually caused
from a biomechancial problem, such as over-pronation (flat feet). The
plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the
bottom surface of the foot, from the heel through the midfoot and into the
forefoot. Over-pronation can cause the plantar fascia to be excessively
stretched and inflamed, resulting in pain in the heel and arch areas of
the foot. Often the pain will be most intense first thing in the morning
or after a prolonged period of rest. The pain will gradually subside as
the day progresses.
TREATMENT & PREVENTION
To properly treat heel pain, you
must absorb shock, provide cushioning and elevate the heel to transfer
pressure. This can be accomplished with a heel cup, visco heel cradle, or
an orthotic designed with materials that will absorb shock and shear
forces.
When the condition is pronation related (usually plantar fasciitis), an
orthotic with medial posting and good arch support will control the
pronation, and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Footwear selection is also an important criteria when treating heel pain.
Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel
height will be the ideal choice.
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