What Causes Heel Pain?

Bursitis

Bursae are small and fluid-filled sacs responsible for cushioning joints and absorbing shock. They can be found in the areas in which muscle tissues, skin, and tendons attach to bones. When the bursae become inflamed, it is called bursitis, a painful condition that can occur at varying points in the body. Though the condition most commonly affects the hip, elbow, and shoulder, it can also affect the heel, knee, and big toe.

When it affects the heel, it often results in heel pain. The condition usually develops around joints that undergo continuous and repetitive motions. The main form of treatment is to rest the joint and keep it from undergoing more trauma. The majority of cases clear up after just a few weeks. With that said, it's common for patients to experience recurring flare-ups of bursitis after the initial inflammation.

Reactive Arthritis

Reactive arthritis is arthritis that develops in response to an infection. While it can be triggered by an infection anywhere in the body, it is most frequently caused by infections of the urinary tract, intestines, or genitals. Patients with this condition experience inflammation, pain, and swelling, and the feet, ankles, and knees are among the most common sites for these symptoms. The urethra, skin, and eyes could also be affected in some cases. A rash might form on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands, and patients may notice swollen fingers or toes. Some individuals report heel pain and lower back pain as well.

The frequency of urination may increase, and patients could experience discomfort during urination. Reactive arthritis usually occurs as a result of a sexually-transmitted or foodborne bacterial infection. Sexually-transmitted infections such as chlamydia may trigger it, and food contaminated with salmonella or campylobacter is another recognized cause. Patients generally experience intermittent symptoms with reactive arthritis, and the condition usually resolves completely within one year. Treatment methods may include antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection, and patients might be prescribed corticosteroids or medications normally used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.