Bone Spurs

How to manage burning heel pain

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The burning heel pain during stretching might be an indication of various problems. Some of the conditions that can cause heel pain include plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, stress fractures and tendonitis.

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Structure of the heel

The heel is a bodily structure that includes muscles, tendons, bones and fascia. All of these structures are required to work hand in hand to avoid injury and the resulting pain. The management for heel pain usually starts with rest along with application of ice, pain-free stretching and strengthening as well as orthotics or foot supports.

Common conditions that causes heel pain

Bone spurs

Bone spurs characteristically form where the tendon and ligament meet the bone. The bone tissue is deposited here since the body feels excess strain along the tendon or ligament. The pain manifests once the bony growth rubs against the neighboring tissues. While stretching, the pain can intensify due to the bone spur that strain on the tissues of the heel. This can cause burning, sharp pain as well as loss of motion that is linked with plantar fasciitis.

Heel pain
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, it involves inflammation of the thickened tissue on the base of the foot from the toes up to the heel.

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This tendon is responsible for connecting the heel bone to the muscles of the calf. It is important to note that this tendon usually ends up swollen due to overuse while running or engaging in various sports.

The individual can suffer from mild to severe heel pain as well as swelling and evident tenderness. The tendon can also be aggravated by trauma and flat arches. If not properly treated or damaged further, the tendon might tear or completely rupture. The pain has the tendency to increase during stretching due to the inflammation of the tissues.

Plantar fasciitis

When it comes to plantar fasciitis, it involves inflammation of the thickened tissue on the base of the foot from the toes up to the heel. The condition typically causes stab-like, sharp pain in the morning or after an extended period of standing or resting.

This condition usually occurs among pregnant women, overweight individuals or those who use footwear with poor support. Remember that the condition is an inflammatory process and might be worsened by activities that involves stretching of the heel where the plantar fascia is attached to.

Stress fractures

Stress fractures are described as miniature cracks in the bone tissue which is usually due to overuse or repetitive injuries. The lower extremities including the heel are affected since the weight-bearing joints are at high risk.

This type of fracture can also occur in spots where tissue attaches to bone due to the pull on the soft tissues on the bone. Engaging in stretching exercises can worsen the pain as the 2 ends of the stress fracture are rubbing against each other. The ensuing heel pain is described as burning and sharp.

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