Why do my heels hurt?
The most common cause of heel pain comes from moving your foot incorrectly while walking or running. This can be place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissue around it. The result is pain.
What causes incorrect foot movement?
The way you move your foot can be affected by:
- inherited muscle and bone problems
- heel injury or bruising
- poorly fitted or worn-out shoes
- excessive weight
Why do my feet hurt when I get out of bed or stand up?
You may have a plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. This is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot and supports the arch of the foot. Excessive walking, running, or jumping flattens and lengthens the plantar fascia. Eventually, the stress can cause small tears in the plantar fascia. When you are off your feet, the plantar fascia rests. When you stand or take a few steps, a sudden strain is put on that and of tissue and it hurts. Although the pain may subside as you walk, plantar fasciitis can be serious.
What is a heel spur?
A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel. Plantar fasciitis often results in heel spurs. Some heel spurs are painless. Others can cause chronic pain. If necessary, medical treatment can be recommended to reduce the pain.