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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffHeel pain is a common foot problem. The pain usually occurs underneath your heel (plantar fasciitis) or just behind it, where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone (Achilles tendinitis). Although the cause of heel pain often isn't serious, the pain itself can be severe and occasionally disabling.
Your doctor can usually determine the cause of your heel pain based on your symptoms and a physical exam. X-rays or other imaging tests are rarely needed. Treatments for heel pain may include rest, stretching and strengthening exercises, and the use of foot supports. Heel pain rarely requires invasive measures, such as surgery.
- Sheon RP, et al. Plantar fasciitis and other causes of heel and sole pain. http//www.uptodate.come/home/index.html. Accessed April 14, 2010.
- Aldridge T. Diagnosing heel pain in adults. American Family Physician. 2004;70:332.
- Heel pain. American Podiatric Medical Association. http://www.apma.org/MainMenu/Foot-Health/FootHealthBrochures/GeneralFootHealthBrochures/HeelPain.aspx. Accessed April 14, 2010.
- Heel pain. American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00159. Accessed April 14, 2010.
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