What Causes Heel Pain When Standing Or Walking

If you spend all day standing or walking a lot, you are at a higher risk for heel pain. Factory workers, teachers, and other occupations that are always on their feet are especially vulnerable. They would come to the clinic and complain about a stabbing pain that is usually worse in the morning. The pain normally subsides as they get up and move, but it might return after extended periods of standing or when they stand up after sitting.
Plantar fasciitis is by far the leading cause of heel pain Houston. The plantar fascia is a long, thin ligament that lies directly beneath the skin on the bottom of your foot. It acts as a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot to help you walk.

It is one of the most common orthopedic foot complaints. Your plantar fascia ligaments experience a lot of wear and tear in daily life. During rest, the plantar fascia relaxes, and once you are on your foot, it tightens due to pressure.

Over time you can strain or damage the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and resulting to pain and stiffness. This is commonly experienced by athletes and people who walk frequently, run, or must stand all day at work. Active men and women between ages 40 and 60 are at the highest risk for developing this condition, though it is slightly more common in women.

Plantar fasciitis usually develops over time, rather than being triggered by any one specific injury. Several risk factors, such as obesity, weight gain, and pregnancy can increase the chance of having plantar fasciitis. Excess weight can damage the plantar fascia, making it less able to absorb shock.

People with structural foot problems are at an increased risk for plantar fasciitis. For people with very flat feet, the entire soles of their feet are more likely to touch the ground when standing. Similarly, very high arches raise your risk because an excessive amount of pressure is placed on the heel and the ball of the foot when standing or walking.

There are many treatments for plantar fasciitis, but because it’s an overuse injury, it has a high rate of recurrence. As is the case with most overuse injuries, the greatest healer is time and rest.

You can still exercise if you have plantar fasciitis. It’s important to take time off from certain exercises, like running, to give the plantar fascia time to heal. Swimming and other low-impact activities can let you exercise without worsening your heel pain. Additionally, if your work requires you to be on your foot all the time, do not forget to stop and stretch. Stretching your calves and the plantar fascia itself helps loosen your muscles and reduce heel pain.

In most cases, self-care measures such as rest, ice, or even purchasing more supportive shoes will help a heel injury heal. However, if you have severe abrupt heel pain when walking or are unable to use your foot, you should see a foot doctor right away. When the discomfort lasts for a couple of weeks or longer, a foot and ankle specialist should be consulted. The foot doctor at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center will examine your condition and give you excellent foot and ankle care.