Your Feet Can Hurt for Many Reasons

Human bodies are truly astounding; they consist of the perfect blend of hormones, fluids, bones and muscles. Unique protection is provided in our joints and at vital regions in the body where weight-bearing pressure points occur. But when this fragile harmony is disrupted by ailments or sudden injury, the result can be terrible pain. Heel bone spurs and plantar fasciitis are two conditions of the feet that can cause a complete lack of mobility.

Areas Affected by Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis

A heel bone spur is a pointed portion of bone that tends to grow out of the heel bone (calcaneus). They can be located either under or on the back side of the heel. When a heel spur is present, it can cause swelling and tearing of the softer foot tissues, which is made worse with regular activity or when pressure is placed on the affected foot. When the bone protrusion is located behind the heel, it can aggravate the Achilles tendon and cause tenderness and swelling in that zone. As cited on MedicineNet’s site, pressure on the ball of the foot makes this particular condition worse. Conversely, when the bony growth is in the area of the bottom of the heel, it aggravates the plantar fascia ligament, thus bringing on a condition called plantar fascitis. MedicineNet describes this condition as worsening when pressure is placed on the foot.

Causes of Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis

Medical findings suggest that heel spurs can have genetic ties. the majority of cases are because of repetitive motion and excessive stretching of the plantar fascia ligament caused by sports or athletic activity, and can also be brought on by repeatedly lifting heavy objects. Plantar-Fasciitis.org cites that certain types of arthritis as well as diabetes can raise the chances of developing either of these painful conditions. They warn that shoes that are too tight can also cause painful foot problems.

Recommended Treatments for Heel Spurs and Plantar Fascitis

The objectives in treatment of these conditions are to decrease the swelling of the soft tissues and ligaments as well as stop reinjury. According to foot specialist Dr. William Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR, this can be done in several ways:

• The use of circular shoe inserts for the heel
• As a last resort, an operation to remove the heel spur to allow for tissue and tendon healing
• Regularly icing on the affected areas
• Use of anti-inflammatory pills
• Sufficiently-cushioned shoes
• Use of the best orthotics available to properly align the foot and take pressure off of the affected areas