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 weightbearing 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 biomechanical flaws and cause plantar fasciitis.
