Anna Balcombe: Sports Podiatrist & Podiatric Surgeon
BSc (Hons) MRSsCPod, MRCPod, FRCPodS

Medical Secretary: 07775 99 55 77
annabalcombepodiatrist@gmail.com
( contact for ALL enquiries and appointments)

Pain underneath your heel

Plantar Fasciitis/ Heel pain

Plantar fasciitis affects the heel and is noted as pain under the heel pad when weight bearing. The symptoms are particularly noticeable when rising from bed in the morning or when sitting for a period of time then standing.

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue, similar to a tendon, which runs from the front of the heel bone to the ball of the foot.

When the foot is on the ground the full weight of the body is concentrated on the plantar fascia and the force stretches the tissue as the arch of the foot tries to flatten from the weight of the body. This in turn leads to stress on the plantar fascia where it attaches to the heel bone, giving rise to small tears of the fascia and pain.

The Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic will issue treatment by way of stretches, strapping , advise, heel cushions, ultrasound, hot/cold therapy, orthotics and massage.

Plantar calcaneal bursitis

Symptoms can be very similar to plantar fasciitis, a dull ache under the heel directly under the fat pad.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Tarsal Tunnel is a condition that occurs from abnormal pressure on a nerve on the inside of the heel the foot, similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.

What is the pain like?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome usually causes a vague pain in the sole of the foot, typically scribed as a burning or tingling sensation which is made worse by activity…. standing and walking for long periods.

How do I treat it?

At our foot and ankle clinic we are able to treat your pain with various pieces of advice, strapping, ultrasound and insoles returning you to pain free activity as soon as possible.

Heel fracture

Fractures are often stress fractures and typically the result of a sudden abrupt injury but can also occur without a history of trauma. Treatment may include the use of X-rays and immobilsatiion followed by rehabilitation.

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