Heel
Pain (Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis)
Heel pain can be very painful to runners.
The most common heel problems are caused
by strain of the plantar fascia, which extends from
the heel to the toes. Strain in this tissue can become
very painful, especially with the first steps of the
day. The condition can cause swelling at the origin
of the plantar fascia at the heel. The pain is most
noticeable when the foot flattens during weight bearing
or when pushing off with the toes during walking or
running, and it is usually located near the heel.
The problems tend to occur in flat, flexible feet
and in high arched, stiff feet. Left untreated, the
pain can spread around the heel.
Treatment should include a decrease
in the intensity and duration of running workouts.
Runners should also evaluate their running shoes for
excessive wear and for proper fit. The wrong shoe
for a foot type can worsen bio mechanical flaws and
cause plantar fasciitis.
