Many people experience back heel pain where there is swelling and heel pain in one or both feet. When this happens, the back of the leg hurts when walking, running, or standing. A person may notice a bump on the back of the heel bone, swelling and enlargement of the heel bone, and a tender area. The pain is most likely due to a common cause, including Haglund’s deformity (a “pump bump” or blow to the heel bone), Achilles tendinitis (swelling in this tendon), tendinitis Achilles calcific insertion (increased bone formation where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone) and retrocalcaneal bursitis (a fluid-filled sac). In each of these foot conditions there can be swelling and inflammation with pain at the back of the heel. Some people walk with a limp due to severe heel pain or find it difficult to take longer strides.
Steps to eliminate pain in the back of the heel
If you suffer from this problem, it is important to do everything possible to treat it conservatively. In most cases, it is possible to avoid surgery, which has long recovery times and risks of complications. Here are some suggestions to try:
wear the right shoes: Tight shoes or high heels can contribute to severe heel pain, so avoid these types of shoes. The pressure from the shoe often makes the pain worse and can even make it more difficult to stand up or move around. Instead, a better option is a roomy shoe with a slight to moderate heel lift. These shoes help reduce stress on the tendon. Also, avoid walking barefoot and wearing flat-soled shoes.
Wear custom orthotics: Several studies have shown that custom orthotics help people who have pain in the back of the heel. Custom orthotics fit the foot and are inserted into the shoe for better heel fit and alignment. These devices can decrease stress or a “twist” on the Achilles tendon.
Stretching and strengthening exercises.: The calf muscle and Achilles tendon area should be stretched regularly. There are also specific types of strength exercises to try. A podiatrist can help determine if strengthening the Achilles tendon might be beneficial.
Wearing a walking boot: This device is for severe morning pain to help soothe the area. It keeps the foot immobilized for a short period of time.
anti-inflammatory drugs: If pain in the back of the foot is a problem, anti-inflammatory medications can temporarily reduce swelling. While this treatment does not cure the underlying problem and should be used short term, it will make the pain more tolerable. After that, a treatment plan can be developed with a podiatrist.
Lose weight: Losing weight may be the most effective treatment. This is because carrying additional weight causes the Achilles tendon to experience forces equivalent to many times your body weight during regular daily activities. If weight loss is a likely cause of backfoot pain, make a concerted effort to work with a nutritionist, trainer, or doctor to lose weight.
