Common Heel Conditions
Plantar Fasciitis is a common form of heel pain caused by damage or inflammation to the fascia [similar to a ligament] which connects the heel bone to the base of the toes.
These are the cracks that occur on the heel due to excessively dry skin or excessively moist skin.
Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
Description
Plantar Fasciitis is a common form of heel pain caused by damage or inflammation to the fascia [similar to a ligament] which connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. It can affect people of any age. Frequent symptoms include a dull intermittent heel pain which is often worse:
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rising in the morning,
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starting a sporting activity, or
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when starting to walk after prolonged sitting.
The symptoms can come on suddenly but normally develop gradually over a period of months.
Causes:
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A sudden increase in activity.
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Increase in sports training.
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Recent weight gain.
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Poor shoe support.
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Changing from high heels to flat shoes.
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Tight Achilles tendon.
Treatments provided:
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Application of suitable padding and strapping to alleviate pain
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Advice on special insoles [orthoses] to help feet to function more effectively and make any possible recurrence less likely.
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Advice on stretching exercises and self-care at the foot clinic.
Heel Fissures
Description
These are the cracks that occur on the heel due to excessively dry skin or excessively moist skin. This can also sometimes bleed and be very painful to walk on.
Causes:
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Dry skin on feet
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Prolonged standing
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Obesity
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Open-back footwear
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Thick hardened skin
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Genetics
Treatments provided:
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Reduction of hard skin on heels
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Application of suitable emollient
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Advice on self-care.