Heel Pain is a common complaint that affects many and can be caused by numerous different reasons.
Some common causes of Heel Pain can include:
- Plantar Fasciitis: A common cause of heel pain where the pain is caused by inflammation of the of the fascia tissue on the arch of the foot. In cases of plantar fasciitis, the pain is concentrated on the bottom or arch of the foot.
- Stress Fracture: Most commonly the fracture occurs on the tarsal bone, generally caused by high impact of the bone.
- Tarsal Tunnel: Similar to carpal tunnel of the hand, the pain is caused by the compression or pinching of the tarsal nerve.
- Heel Spur: A sharp and pointy bony growth of the calcaneus bone. Heel spurs under the sole or arch of the foot are commonly associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Achilles Tendinitis: The inflammation of the Achilles tendon, generally caused by overuse.
The treatment of heel pain differs depending on diagnosis and cause of the symptoms. It is important to see your physician to get an accurate diagnosis to ensure proper treatment.
You should seek medical attention if:
- The heel pain persists for more a few days
- The heel pain that occurs at night or while resting
- There are signs of swelling or discoloration
- There are any signs of infection, including fever, or redness and warmth
If you are experiencing mild heel pain or discomfort, you should rest, acquire shoe inserts or new comfortable shoes, and find exercises and stretches you can do that is recommended by your physician!
Try these following Acupressure Points to Alleviate Mild Heel Pain:
- UB 60 (Kun Lun)昆侖: This point is located on the foot, behind the external malleolus, in the depression between the tip of the external malleolus and tendo calcaneus.
- PC 7 (Da Ling)大陵 : This point is located in the middle of the wrist crease between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis.
- KD 3 (Tai Xi)太谿: This point is located on the inside of the foot, behind to the medial malleolus, in the depression between the tip of the medial malleolus and tendo calcaneus (Opposite to UB 60).
Note: These Acupressure points should be stimulated with moderate pressure and should be stimulated frequently throughout the day! Stimulate each point with your thumb and/or index finger for at least a minute before moving on to the next point!
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a patient education resource only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem as it is not a substitute for expert professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, please consult your health care provider.
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