Many people run, but very few people think about what their feet withstand during running. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, each mile you walk puts 60 tons of stress on your feet -- more if you are running. With this amount of stress, it is no wonder some people experience heel pain from running. Heel pain is the most common problem in the foot and ankle, explains the AAOS, but once the underlying causes are diagnosed, the condition may be remedied.
Step 1
See a sports medicine specialist or an orthopaedic surgeon if you are a runner and are experiencing heel pain. These doctors specialize in injuries and conditions typically seen in athletes and may be better able to accurately diagnose and treat you, rather than your general physician.
Step 2
Have the specialist examine your foot. A clinical examination of your arch and heel, palpating the foot for tenderness and analyzing your gait can help the doctor diagnose the source of your heel pain. Your doctor may be able to diagnose plantar fasciitis this way. The AAOS states that plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, affecting over 2 million patients each year.
Step 3
Get imaging tests, if your doctor recommends any. Heel pain may be caused by heel spurs, which will be visible on an X-ray. Other causes of heel pain, including fractures or arthritis, may also be able to be seen on an imaging test, giving the doctor a clearer view of any other underlying causes of pain. An MRI or bone scan may be ordered if a stress fracture is suspected, since these are not always able to be seen initially on X-ray because they are not clean breaks, states MayoClinic.com.
Tips and Warnings
- Invest in properly fitting, supportive footwear. Go to a specialty running store where they examine your foot and arch and watch you walk and run to analyze your gait for the most supportive shoe for your running style. A well-made, cushioned and supportive shoe may be able to lessen your pain and reduce the risk of future injuries. You may want to start running on dirt or grass; these are softer than concrete and may reduce the impact on your heels and feet. Talk with your doctor about ways to minimize future heel pain.
- Do not try and diagnose heel pain yourself. If you have heel pain, see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. If you have a stress fracture or a chronic condition, continuing to run can make the pain worse and possibly cause significant injury.
