What Causes Heel Pain?

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain and inflammation. While other forms of arthritis are caused by wear and tear on the joints, this form of arthritis affects the lining of the joints, and it could eventually lead to erosion of the bones and joint deformities. In general, patients experience symptoms in the same joints on both sides of the body; for example, both wrists may show symptoms at the same time. The smaller joints of the fingers and toes are typically affected first, and the condition may cause symptoms such as a fever, loss of appetite, or fatigue. Some patients may experience symptoms that affect the skin, heart, lungs, kidneys, and eyes as well.

To diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, doctors often perform blood tests that check the patient's erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels. Both of these tend to be elevated in individuals with this form of arthritis. Rheumatoid factor tests may be conducted, and MRI scans or ultrasounds are used to determine the severity of the condition. Treatment methods include biologic agents such as adalimumab, etanercept, and tofacitinib, and patients might also take disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs such as methotrexate. Physical therapy could help maintain joint flexibility, and physical therapists often teach patients modified ways of completing tasks with less pain.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs occur when a calcium deposit forms in the area between the heel bone and the arch of the foot. They typically begin at the front of the heel or just underneath it. Symptoms of heel spurs include swelling and pain in the heel, and the heel might feel warmer than other areas of the foot. A tiny protrusion of bone might be visible on the heel itself; however, a heel spur can be present without any visible changes to the bones or soft tissues.

Patients could develop heel spurs as a result of obesity, arthritis, walking issues, or bruises on the heel, and they may occur if the patient frequently wears footwear that does not properly support the foot. X-rays are used to detect heel spurs, and recommended treatment methods include rest, over-the-counter pain medications, cold compresses, and physical therapy. In severe cases, heel spurs might be treated with corticosteroid injections.