Out of convenience -- especially during the cold winter months -- many individuals turn to treadmills to stay in shape or shed a few extra pounds. As you run on a treadmill, you are exerting a force on your foot that is three to four times the weight of your body, according to the American College of Podiatric Sports Medicine. Sometimes staying in shape can lead to problems with your heels. Always consult your doctor if you experience persistent heel pain.
Abnormal Gait
Gait abnormalities can create inflammation in the structures surrounding the heel -- including the plantar fascia. Abnormalities in the way you walk or run can be produced unconsciously and are usually caused by diseases, injuries or genetic foot deformities. Abnormal gait can place excessive stress on your feet. One common result of abnormal gait is plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the arch of your foot. This tissue band connects your heel bone to your toes.
Proper Footwear
Ill-fitting shoes can lead to sore heels when using a treadmill. Shoes that are too tight, worn or inappropriate for running can cause conditions including Achilles' tendinitis and bursitis. Tendinitis created pain, swelling and inflammation in the tendon of your heel. Bursitis is often the result of running too much or wearing sneakers that cut into the back of your heel. Both are considered over-used injuries. You should pick shoes that have plenty of toe room and are used for running. Shoes should be chosen based on your foot structure, body weight, running surface and how often you run. Shoes should also fit appropriately in width and have proper shock absorption. A running specialty store can help best determine the shoes you should be using while running on a treadmill.
Foot Checkups
If you are beginner runner, you should visit with a podiatrist prior to starting your treadmill running routine. A podiatrist can help identify potential foot problems -- including problems with your heels -- and discuss the use of appropriate running shoes and orthotics for your feet. If you are frequent treadmill runner, visiting a podiatrist on a regular basis can help check for signs of heel conditions as well as other foot problems. Visiting with a doctor is important because running places a tremendous amount of stress on your feet. If you experience heel aches and pains while running on a treadmill, rest. If pain subsides, you may continue with running. If pain persists or becomes worse, visit with a podiatrist.
Other Causes of Sore Heels
In addition to plantar fasciitis, tendinitis and bursitis, you may experience heel pain for other reasons. Heel pain can be the result of heel spurs which are build-ups of calcium beneath the heel. Heel spurs are commonly linked to plantar fasciitis. Overtraining may also leave you with a stress fracture. Stress fractures are small cracks in your bones that develop over time and are the result of excessive stress placed on your foot.
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