Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is one the most common problems seen by Canadian Certified Pedorthists. Causes include:

• Poor foot mechanics
• Being overweight
• Low activity levels
• Improper footwear
• Aging
• Unfavourable ground conditions

Common Heel Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis One of the most common heel problems seen by Canadian Certified Pedorthists, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia (a thick fibrous tissue that extends from the heel to the toes, supporting the arch). Poor foot posture or excessive ankle motion during walking can strain the plantar fascia resulting in small tears and increased tension where the fascia attaches to the calcaneus (heel). Symptoms:

• Pain and swelling (inflammation) at the beginning of the arch or bottom of the heel
• Often the pain is worse with the first few steps after rising in the morning or after sitting

Calcaneal Stress Fracture Calcaneal stress fracture of the heel is usually a result of some sort of trauma but can also result from increased activity done improperly. Symptoms:

• Total avoidance of weight-bearing

Retrocalcaneal Bursitis (Achilles bursitis) Retrocalcaneal bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa (balloon-like lubricating sack) that lies between the Achilles tendon and the back of the heel bone (calcaneus). Symptoms:

• Tenderness at the back of the heel just above where the Achilles tendon attaches
• Swelling of the bursa produces symmetric widening of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches to the calcaneus (heel)
• Pain increases with passive dorsiflexion (bending the foot towards the front of the leg) of the ankle or when standing on toes