Eliminate end-of-summer heel pain
Posted by Dennis Mundt on
As summer draws to a close and flip-flops, flat sandals, and warm-weather athletic shoes are relegated to the back of the closet, many people will notice heel pain in one or both feet.
Although gait abnormalities can cause heel pain, the Michigan Podiatric Medical Association says that an injury from walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces, or from wearing poorly constructed shoes, can also cause heel pain.
"If you give a sore heel enough rest, it will usually get better on its own without surgery," said Dr. Jodie Sengstock, MPMA's director of professional relations.
"However, many people ignore the early signs of heel pain and continue to do the activities that caused it." "If a person continues to walk on a sore heel, it will only get worse and could become a chronic condition, leading to more problems."
Heel spurs are caused by a strain on the foot's muscles and ligaments.
The band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot will stretch, and the membrane that covers the heel bone will tear repeatedly.
Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of fibrous connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain and spurs.
It could also be caused by switching from flat-heeled to higher-heeled footwear and vice versa.
Achilles Tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon as it runs behind the ankle and inserts on the back surface of the heel bone, causing pain in the back of the heel.
When the tendon is strained over time, the fibers tear or stretch along its length or at its insertion on the heel bone, resulting in the condition.
Such heel pain could be caused by a heel spur or it could be a symptom of a heel spur.
Haglund's deformity is a bone enlargement at the back of the heel bone where the Achilles tendon attaches.
A bone bruise, also known as a contusion, is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the heel bone.
Wear shoes with shock-absorbent soles, firm shanks, and supportive heel counters that fit well in the front, back, and sides.
Wearing shoes with excessive wear on the heels or soles is not recommended.
Read the original article "End-of-summer heel pain is a thing of the past." at https://www.theoaklandpress.com/lifestyles/health/eliminate-end-of-summer-heel-pain/article_f2fdcbe4-c342-11e8-95a6-732d08030d94.html
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