posterior heel pain

Posterior heel pain can come fom one of several causes. When a doctor is talking about posterior heel pain, he is referring to pain behind the heel, not below it. Pain underneath the heel, on the bottom of the foot can be caused by Tarsal Tunnel syndrome, or plantar fascitis or heel spurs.

Pain over the posterior part of the heel is commonly due to Achille tendonitis, retrocalcaneal bursitis or calcaneal spur. Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon in the back of the ankle. Most commonly pain is experienced directly over the tendon, but it may also be at the point where the tendon attached to the heel bone. Degenerative changes such as small tears within the tendon and calcium depositis within the tendon can contribute to this problem.

Retrocalcaneal bursitis: there are several bursa behind the heelbone that protects this area of contact. Often these bursa can become irritated leading to bursitis , inflammation and posterior heel pain.

Calcaneal spur: A bone spur can form over a long period of time at the insertion of the achilles tendon in the back of the heel. This bony prominence can grow over time, and is referred to as a "pump bump." This extra bone can irritate the surrounding tissues and lead to bursitis of the surrounding bursa.

The doctor may recommend orthotics to support your foot and heel. Visit our website for Powerstep insoles. http://www.vailfoot.com/