Extreme Heel Pain

Severe heel pain can be caused by several different conditions which arise from trauma or repetitive stress to the heel ankle and foot; pain can linger and become a chronic condition depending on the cause.

  1. Fracture

    • Sudden acute heel pain may be the result of a fracture of the bone in the heel caused by a heavy impact to the heel, such as coming down on the heel on a hard surface while barefoot.

    Plantar Fasciitis

    • Plantar fasciitis is pain that develops in the heel due to an irritation of tissues that connect the heel to the toes through the arch of the foot. Pain from plantar fasciitis can be minor but may become great if the tissues are severely inflamed.

    Achille's Tendon

    • If the Achille's tendon that connects to the heel and runs up the back of lower leg is hyper-extended or irritated, it can cause great pain in the heel area.

    Immediate Treatment

    • After experience extreme heel pain, the affected heel should be rested and ice should be applied to reduce swelling and speed recovery. Elevating the leg and applying a compression bandage can also reduce swelling.

    Long-Term Treatment

    • Weight should be kept off an injured heel until the ankle you can stand and walk without pain. Exercising the muscles of the foot and calf and using more supportive footwear and orthotics can help prevent pain and injury.