When the Back of Your Heel Is Painful

Pain behind the heel, known as posterior heel pain, can be caused by several conditions. Achilles’ tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon that attaches to the back of the heel. The inflammation may be caused by tears or calcium deposits within the tendon. A bone spur that develops at the back of the heel bone (nicknamed “pump bump”) can irritate surrounding tissue and become painful rubbing against footwear. Retrocalcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the cushioning bursa sac between the back of the heel and the Achilles tendon. Other possible causes of posterior heel pain include stress fractures in the heel bone, an inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the foot (plantar fasciitis), and compression and inflammation of a small, extra bone some people have in their ankle (os trigonum syndrome). If you have any pain in the back of your heel, it is suggested that you get your condition diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Associates in Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Pittsburgh-South Hills, and Pittsburgh-Bellevue, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.