Why Does My Heel Pain Keep Getting Worse: Beyond Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain can be a serious issue, especially when it seems to be getting worse without any obvious injury or fall. While plantar fasciitis is a common cause, it may not be the only issue at play. Here, we explore some possible reasons for persistent heel pain and what you can do about it.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the flat band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs across the bottom of your foot, from the heel to the toes. It is often described as feeling like someone has hit the bottom of your foot with a 2x4, especially first thing in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain typically results from tiny tears in the fascia due to overuse and repetitive strain, leading to inflammation and thicker bands of calcium deposits.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Overuse: Engaging in activities that put excessive strain on the foot, such as running or jumping on hard surfaces, can lead to heel pain. Poor Footwear: Shoes with inadequate support or shock absorption can cause or exacerbate heel pain. Injury: Even minor injuries, such as a sudden inward or outward turn of the heel, can contribute to heel pain. Biomechanical Issues: Structural problems like flat feet or high arches can also lead to heel pain.

Steps to Relieve Heel Pain

Rest: Take a break from activities that cause pain and allow your foot to heal. Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the affected area, doing so at least twice a day for 10-15 minutes, especially in the first few days. Over-the-Counter Medicines: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to alleviate pain. Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitted, comfortable, and supportive shoes. Heel Supports: Use heel cups or felt pads in the heel area or shoe inserts. Night Splints: Consider wearing a night splint to keep the plantar fascia stretched. Crutches: Use crutches if necessary to take weight off your feet.

Misdiagnosis or Additional Underlying Condition

While plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, there could be other conditions contributing to your symptoms. Misdiagnosis or an underlying condition is possible. Here are some potential reasons:

Misdiagnosis: Your initial diagnosis might not be accurate, or you could have other conditions contributing to your symptoms. Inadequate Treatment: If your current treatment plan hasn't helped, it might not be addressing your specific condition. Consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice. Overuse or Repetitive Strain: Engaging in activities that put excessive stress on your feet can exacerbate the issue. Foot Structure or Biomechanics: Structural abnormalities in your foot, like flat feet or high arches, can also lead to heel pain. Injury to Other Structures: Other injuries or inflammation in the foot, such as to the Achilles tendon, can cause pain.

What to Do Next

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause of your heel pain. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or imaging, to evaluate your foot's condition and rule out other possibilities. Meanwhile, try some self-care measures like resting, applying ice, and wearing supportive shoes as recommended by your healthcare provider.

For more information, you can refer to the following resources:

Foot problems - heel pain - Better Health Channel Heel Pain: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Heel Pain Information - Mount Sinai - New York