I have got a sudden pain in my heel?!
Question: I have got a sudden pain in my heel?
I have only just started exercising, so therefore I am connecting the exercise with the pain in my heel. This pain is gradually getting worse. Does anyone know what it could be and is there anything I can do to help with the pain?
Thanks xx
Answers:
Hello,
It is difficult to determine exactly what is wrong with you foot based on the information you provided.
But a good guess would be "Plantar Fasciitis" because you started exercising recently and you also have pain in the morning - these are common symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis.
In order to know for sure, please answer these questions:
1) Does the pain go away after rest?
2) Does it also hurt when you are not standing/walking?
3) Do you have high or low arches in your feet? http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,71…
4) Where exactly is the pain located in your heel?
5) Is it sensitive to the touch/massage it?
6) Is there any swelling visible?
7) What kind of shoes you usually wear?
Here are some suggestions for things you can do right now.
* Ice your heel at least 4 times a day - You can roll a frozen bottle on the floor with your foot.
* Buy off the counter gel inserts that you can wear in your shoes.
* Stretch your legs and feet before activity or before getting out of bed in the morning.
* Avoid wearing "cheap" shoes like flip flops - they provide no support for your arches.
Again, if you can answer my questions above I will be able to help you further.
You can write to me directly if you prefer,my email appears in my profile.
Good luck and feel better!
A common cause is 'plantar fasciitis' ... which is to do with the arch of your foot not being properly supported. It can mean we distribute the load in ways for which our foot was not designed so, after a while, it hurts especially around the heal and Achilles tendon and when putting weight on it.
The solution is a combination of rest, using an arch support (available from pharmacies), wearing properly supportive footwear an using pain relief tablets or gels as necessary. I believe it takes a while to recover so you need to be patient.
Obviously, I can't say this is what you are experiencing but it is very common. I know from my own experience how uncomfortable it can be. It might be worth talking to your doctor before you embark on any intense exercise regime.
You could of possibly pulled a muscle in the back of your foot,
due to walking for a long period of time, and putting strain on your heel.
Rest it up for a few days, and it should been fine.