For athletes, staying active and pushing physical limits are essential parts of their lifestyle. However, when heel pain strikes, it can significantly impact performance and sideline even the most dedicated athletes. Heel pain is a common complaint among athletes of all levels and can stem from various causes. Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi and Dr. Neil Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry serving Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, can explain how heel pain can affect athletes and what should be done.
Athletes and Heel Pain
Several types of issues might cause heel pain, and many are caused by overuse. This can be common within athletes and it’s important to be able to identify what might be the cause of your heel pain. When you start feeling heel pain, it’s important to talk to your podiatrist serving Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, immediately. When the cause is identified, you can start the proper treatment and get back to your active lifestyle as soon as possible.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most prevalent causes of heel pain in athletes, particularly runners, dancers, and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or strained due to repetitive stress or overuse. Symptoms typically include sharp pain and stiffness in the heel or arch of the foot, especially upon waking or after prolonged periods of rest.
Achilles tendinitis is another common source of heel pain, particularly in athletes who participate in activities that involve repetitive jumping or running. This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes inflamed or irritated. Symptoms can include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, swelling, and difficulty walking or participating in physical activities.
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often as a result of long-term strain or pressure on the plantar fascia. While heel spurs themselves may not cause pain, they can contribute to heel pain by irritating surrounding tissues or exacerbating conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Athletes who engage in activities that place repetitive stress on the heel, such as running or jumping, may be more susceptible to developing heel spurs.
Contact Our Podiatrist Today
Make sure you talk to your podiatrist to understand how to deal with your heel pain as an athlete. Contact Dr. Ricciardi and Dr. Patel at Emerald Coast Podiatry serving Fort Walton Beach, Crestview, and Niceville, FL, to learn more about heel pain and how it can affect you as an athlete. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (850) 862-4119 for the office in Fort Walton Beach, FL, and (850) 682-6522 for the office in Crestview, FL.