Pain at the bottom of the heel can feel like a stabbing sensation with every step. This can make everyday activities like walking feel uncomfortable or even unbearable. If this is something you are experiencing, you may be wondering, “Why does the bottom of my heel hurt when I walk?” In this article, we will go over the potential causes of heel pain while walking. Fortunately, there is a wide range of solutions available, starting from at-home remedies all the way to medical interventions like minimally invasive heel surgery. You can be assured that we will cover both the reasons for your pain as well as the many options you have to treat it.
Why Does My Heel Hurt While Walking?
Understanding the main cause of your pain is the first step towards discovering the right kind of relief. Here are some of the most common culprits of heel pain while walking:
1. Plantar Fasciitis
This occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs at the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. Patients describe this condition as a sharp, stabbing pain near the heel, especially during the first few steps after waking up or after resting for a long period.
2. Heel Spurs
Calcium deposits that cause a bony protrusion on the bone are called heel spurs. Not all heel spurs cause pain, but they can irritate nearby soft tissue and worsen discomfort while walking.
3. Achilles Tendonitis
This condition affects the back of the heel rather than the bottom. However, the pain can radiate and make walking an arduous task. Patients develop Achilles tendonitis after overuse or strain on the Achilles tendon, which can happen from playing sports or involvement in high-impact activity.
4. Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints) near the heel can cause pain and tenderness while walking.
5. Fat Pad Atrophy
With age or excessive activity, the natural cushioning under the heel can wear down and cause soreness with every step you take.
Risk Factors
You may be more likely to have heel pain if you:
- Spend long hours on your feet
- Have flat feet or high arches
- Do not wear supportive shoes
- Run on hard surfaces often
Foot mechanics, lifestyle, and certain health issues like diabetes or arthritis can also increase your risk.
When to See a Doctor
Minor heel pain can often resolve with rest and basic care at home, but you should consult a medical professional if:
- The pain is severe
- It stays for more than a few weeks
- There is obvious swelling, redness, or bruising
- Your ability to walk and complete daily activities is being affected
A podiatrist or orthopedist can look at your symptoms and develop the best course of action.
Treatment Options
Depending on the cause, the doctor might advise:
1. Rest and Ice
Give your heel time to heal by using a cold compress and reducing inflammation.
2. Stretching and Physical Therapy
Stretching the calf muscle and plantar fascia improves flexibility and releases tension. Targeted exercises may encourage the healing process and stop the pain from returning.
3. Orthotic Inserts
Custom shoe inserts can help correct your foot mechanics and physically support both the arch and heel.
4. Footwear
Choosing to wear shoes with enough support for your arch, cushioning, and shock absorption can keep heel pain at bay.
5. Medications
To manage swelling and pain, you can use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
6. Corticosteroid Injections
Injections may be used in some cases to combat inflammation and pain.
7. Minimally Invasive Procedures
When conservative treatments do not yield the desired results, minimally invasive heel surgery could be an option. These procedures are low-risk and are aimed at relieving tension or removing heel spurs. Small incisions are made, allowing for faster recovery than in a traditional surgery.
Your doctor might even recommend a combination of the above treatments!
Prevention Tips
With good habits, you can prevent heel pain in the future. Wearing good shoes can help when you are on your feet a lot and play sports. Warm up before exercise, stretch, and avoid walking barefoot on a hard surface. Keeping yourself at a healthy weight will also reduce the pressure on your heels.
Prioritizing Proper Care
If your heel pain is getting in the way of your ability to move comfortably, do not ignore it. You can prevent further complications by having a professional intervene early. Discussing your situation and options with a specialist can ensure that you get the right heel pain treatment. Take care of your feet and schedule a consultation today!