WHY Does My Heel Hurt?

One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is caused by issues arising from the plantar fascia on the base of your foot.

The thick band of tissue or ligament that runs from your heel bone (calcaneus) across your arch and the ball of your foot to the base of your toes ball is called the plantar fascia.

This ligament acts very much like a large, thick rubber band.



The plantar fascia maintains the arch of the foot - pulling on the heel bone,
raising your arch as your foot pushes off the ground.

When your foot touches down again and impacts the ground, the plantar fascia stretches out and the foot lengthens.






With its constant, central role in the biomechanical movement of the foot, problems can develop - and the most common of these is plantar fasciitis.

If the foot moves incorrectly, the plantar fascia may become strained, its fibers may experience small tears or fray and the fascia swells or becomes irritated and inflammed.

What causes a foot to move incorrectly?

Your foot may be moving incorrectly due to biomechanical issues -

• Flat feet - the foot flattens too much -- fascia can be overstretched and swell
  
• High arches - the foot does not flatten enough and the fascia may be pulled too tight and ache
  
• Pronation - or abnormal inward twisting of the leg and foot
  
• Achilles tendinits - tight tendons at the back of the heel

What other factors can cause plantar fasciitis?

• Repeated foot use - or excessive exercise, walking or running on hard surfaces
  
• Sudden weight gain - or overweight placing stress on the foot and ligament
  
• Improper shoes - shoes with little or no support, poor arch support, soft soles or that fit incorrectly or are poorly cushioned
  
• Arthritis in the foot
  
• Traumatic injury to the foot

If you are experiencing painful heels, feel free to contact Dr. Jeffers who can determine the source of your pain and treat plantar fasciitis and other foot, ankle, knee and leg problems that may arise - for the athletic and non-athletic individual. Call your San Diego chiropractor, Dr. Jeffers, with any questions -- (858) 452-7770 Find out what other patients say about Dr. Jeffers treatment in chiropractor reviews and GET HELP -- Today!