Heel Pain? It’s Not Always Plantar Fasciitis!
Heel pain is a daily frustration for many active New Yorkers. From navigating subway stairs to pounding the pavement, our feet take a beating. And while plantar fasciitis often gets the spotlight (and it is very common), it’s not the only culprit.
At Lionel G. Hausman’s office, we know accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective relief. This guide explores other common conditions causing heel pain and how you can see what you’re facing for sure!
Plantar Fasciitis: The Usual Suspect
Yes, inflammation of the sole’s thick tissue band is frequent. Its hallmark is often sharp pain under the heel, especially with early morning steps or after rest. But if your symptoms differ or plantar fasciitis treatments haven’t worked, it’s time to look further.
Beyond Plantar Fasciitis: Other Culprits and Causes
Consider these potential sources for your heel discomfort:
- Achilles Tendonitis: Is your pain more at the back of your heel, possibly extending up the Achilles tendon, worsening with running or stairs? This points to Achilles tendon inflammation, common with city walking.
- Heel Spurs (and the myth): A heel spur is a bony growth. Many have spurs without pain. When pain is present with a spur, it’s often due to associated plantar fasciitis or soft tissue inflammation, not the spur itself.
- Stress Fractures of the Calcaneus (Heel Bone): Experiencing a deep, aching heel pain, perhaps after increased activity or impact? This could be a tiny crack in your heel bone.
- Nerve Entrapment / Irritation: Does your heel pain involve burning, tingling, or numbness? Nerves like the tibial nerve (Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome) or Baxter’s nerve can become compressed, causing these distinct symptoms.
- Sever’s Disease (in Active Kids & Teens): If your child is active in NYC sports and complains of heel pain, especially around the heel’s growth plate, Sever’s Disease is a common cause.
- Fat Pad Atrophy: Feeling less cushioning under your heel, with pain worse on hard surfaces? The natural fatty padding can thin with age or stress.
Accurate Diagnosis is Key!
Self-diagnosing is tricky; different causes need different treatments. What helps one condition might worsen another! At our office, we conduct thorough exams, discuss symptoms, and may use X-rays or ultrasound to pinpoint the cause.
Dealing With Heel Pain You Can’t Trace? Get in Touch for Answers and Options!
If you have a foot problem you’d like to address, visit Gramercy Park for an appointment with Board Certified Podiatrist Lionel G. Hausman, DPM. Whether it’s an ingrown toenail, heel pain, bunions, or plantar fasciitis, Dr. Hausman can expertly treat numerous foot and ankle conditions. If you’re in need of help, get in touch with us today!
