Achilles tendonitis is usually an overuse foot and ankle injury caused by inflammation in the Achilles tendon, which connects our calf muscles to the heel bone. Runners and athletes of jumping sports are at risk because of the repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendonitis causes pain, redness, and swelling at the back of the heel or ankle, and you will also find difficulty standing on the toes. We typically recommend a combination of solutions and strengthening exercises to manage Achilles tendonitis.
1. Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the band of tissue that runs from your heel to your toes becomes inflamed. Plantar fasciitis is often caused by flat feet, high arch feet, long standing hours, or poor footwear. The classic symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp stabbing pain that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest.
2. Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is another common cause of heel pain, which occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed. The Achilles tendon runs from the back of the leg (calf muscle) down to the heel bone. Achilles tendinitis is often caused by excessive high-impact sports such as running or jumping. It can cause dull or sharp pain in the back of the heel and is often worse after exercise.
3. Heel spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the bottom or the back of the heel bone. They often occur as a result of long-term plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. Heel spurs are our body’s natural response to tendon stress, and they are usually not the main cause of your heel pain. The symptoms of heel spurs are largely similar to plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis, depending on where the spurs are at.
4. Stress fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that can occur as a result of overuse or repetitive stress. Individuals that often get heel stress fractures are long-distance runners or jumping sports. They can cause sharp pain in the heel that is worse during exercise. Stress fractures can also occur and cause foot pain in other parts of the foot.
5. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
Retrocalcaneal bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduce the friction between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. Retrocalcaneal bursitis typically affects athletes such as football or basketball. It can cause heel pain that is worse with movements such as running uphill or sprinting.
Getting the right diagnosis is the key to recovery
There are other less common causes of heel pain, such as nerve entrapment or systemic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. So, as you can see, there are many conditions that cause heel pain in Singapore. The solution for heel pain only works if the diagnosis is correct. If you have been suffering from heel pain for some time, it’s best to consult with a podiatrist for appropriate assessment and management. Our podiatrists at Straits Podiatry are experienced in managing various conditions and we often see many cases of common foot and ankle pain. Hence, if you need help finding the best podiatrist in Singapore, call us today and let us assist you!
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