Wondering why your heel suddenly hurts? Dr. Nimish Chokshi, your Easton, PA podiatrist at Accent Podiatry, shares several heel pain 
causes.
Metatarsalgia
Metarsalgia, also known as a stone bruise, occurs when the fat pad at the bottom of your heel becomes bruised. The problem can occur if you step on something hard, like a pebble or a Lego, or if you're a runner. Rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful. A stone bruise usually goes away on its own in a week or two.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis
The retrocalcaneal bursa is a fluid-filled sac located at the place where your Achilles tendon connects your heel to your toes. Heel pain occurs when the sac becomes inflamed or irritated. Rest, ice and pain medications will help reduce the inflammation. If it continues, your foot doctor may recommend a steroid injection. In severe cases, a cast or surgery may be needed.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band of tissue that connects the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes becomes inflamed. The pain is usually worse in the morning, but can also flare up if you sit or stand too long. Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice are can relieve plantar fasciitis pain. Stretching the foot and calf muscles is an important part of the treatment plan. Your Easton podiatrist may recommend that you wear a splint at night to stretch your foot or suggest that you attend physical therapy sessions. Steroid injections and surgery may also be needed in some cases.
Heel spurs
It may not be fair, but people who have had plantar fasciitis are more likely to develop heel spurs after the condition improves. Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form at the spot where the fascia connects the bottom of the foot to the heel. Heel spurs can also occur if you run or jog, are overweight or wear shoes that don't fit well. Physical therapy, shoe inserts and applying tape to support your foot can help. Your foot doctor may recommend steroid injections if your pain doesn't improve.
You don't have to suffer with heel pain. Dr. Chokshi, your Easton, PA podiatrist, can provide treatments that will help ease your pain. Call (610) 810-0800 to schedule an appointment.