Burning heel pain can get in the way of daily activities, turning simple tasks like walking and standing into a challenge. Identifying the cause of the pain is the first step toward relief. While it may be tempting to ignore burning heel pain in its early stages, this type of discomfort may stem from an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed in order for the pain to go away. In this article, we explore common causes of burning heel pain, potential treatment methods, and practical tips for prevention.
7 Main Causes of Burning Heel Pain
Determining the cause of burning heel pain is necessary for it to be treated effectively. Below are some of the most common conditions responsible for burning heel pain:
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the main causes of heel pain, occurring when the plantar fascia (a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot) becomes inflamed. This condition is typically caused by repetitive stress from activities such as running, standing for long periods, or wearing unsupportive shoes. Symptoms often include stabbing or burning pain in the heel that is particularly noticeable first thing in the morning or after prolonged rest.
2. Achilles Tendonitis
This condition develops when the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes irritated or inflamed. Common causes of Achilles tendonitis include overuse, tight calf muscles, or a sudden increase in physical activity. This condition can cause pain that radiates from the back of the heel and worsens with movement, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks.
3. Sever’s Disease
Often seen in children and adolescents during growth spurts, Sever’s disease is characterized by inflammation in the growth plate of the heel. It is commonly linked to repetitive stress from sports and other high-impact activities. Symptoms include pain and tenderness, typically at the back or bottom of the heel, that intensify with physical exertion.
4. Peroneal Tendonitis
This condition affects the tendons along the outer side of the ankle and heel, often resulting from overuse or injury. Individuals with peroneal tendonitis may experience swelling, tenderness, and a burning sensation around the heel. People who are involved in sports or who spend extended hours on their feet are more likely to develop this condition.
5. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. This condition can cause burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the heel and other parts of the foot. It is often associated with flat feet, inflammation, and trauma to the ankle area
6. Stress Fractures
Repetitive impact from activities that involve running or jumping can lead to stress fractures in the heel bone. These small cracks can cause localized pain that intensifies with activity. Burning sensations may accompany the pain, causing significant discomfort.
7. Fat Pad Atrophy
The fat pad under the heel acts as a cushion, absorbing shock from impact during daily activities. Over time, the fat pad may wear down due to aging or high-impact activities, leading to a condition called fat pad atrophy. The result is a burning or aching sensation in the heel that intensifies when weight is placed on it.
Treatment for Burning Heel Pain
Effective treatment should address the underlying cause of burning heel pain. Below are the most commonly recommended methods for relief:
RICE Method
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are simple and effective ways to manage inflammation and discomfort. Resting the affected foot prevents further irritation. Applying ice reduces swelling and numbs the pain, while compression improves circulation and supports the affected area. Elevating the foot helps minimize swelling and pressure on the heel.
Foot Taping
Taping provides much-needed stability and reduces strain on affected areas, such as the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Using athletic or kinesiology tape can help support the heel, ease discomfort, and promote faster recovery, making movement less painful during the healing process.
Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises performed under the direction of a physical therapist can help reduce tension and improve strength in affected tissues. Stretching and strengthening the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and surrounding muscles can not only alleviate pain but also prevent future issues. This treatment approach is particularly helpful for chronic conditions.
Footwear Modification
Wearing shoes that offer proper arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption can significantly reduce heel pain. Switching to well-fitted footwear or using orthotic inserts can help realign the foot, relieve pressure, and improve overall comfort, making daily activities more manageable.
Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can ease discomfort and reduce inflammation. For more severe pain, doctors may recommend prescription-strength options or administer corticosteroid injections to address localized inflammation.
Surgery
Surgical intervention is only considered when other treatments fail to provide relief. Depending on the condition causing the pain, procedures may include releasing the plantar fascia, repairing the Achilles tendon, or decompressing the tarsal tunnel. While effective, surgery carries risks and should be a last resort when conservative treatment is ineffective.
How to Prevent Burning Heel Pain
Small changes in your daily habits can go a long way in preventing heel pain. Here are some prevention tips you can incorporate into your routine:
- Stretch regularly: Simple stretches for your calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can help with flexibility and reduce tension.
- Maintain a healthy body weight: Reducing excess weight helps lower the pressure on your feet, decreasing the likelihood of developing strain-related conditions.
- Warm up before physical activity: Preparing your muscles and tendons for exercise minimizes the risk of injury.
- Wear the right footwear: Invest in shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. Replace worn-out shoes to maintain adequate foot protection.
Treat Burning Heel Pain with Dr. Gary Driver
Living with heel pain can be difficult, but there are a number of treatment options that can provide you with relief. Dr. Gary Driver offers diagnosis and treatment of a variety of foot and ankle conditions that cause burning heel pain. Using advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques, Dr. Gary Driver aims to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Dr. Gary Driver is highly skilled in surgical procedures including minimally invasive bunion surgery, total ankle replacements, charcot foot reconstruction, and ankle fractures. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gary Driver today and take a step closer to full-body wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are over-the-counter pain medications effective for managing heel pain?
Yes, over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and ease pain temporarily. However, they address symptoms rather than the root cause, so combining them with targeted treatments is essential for lasting relief.
Is it safe to exercise if I have burning heel pain?
You should take a careful approach to exercise with burning heel pain. Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling are safer options, while high-impact exercises should be avoided until the pain subsides to prevent further injury.
