When you wake up in the morning, get out of bed and put your feet on the ground for the first time, you feel a sharp pain like a needle in your heel, and the pain subsides after walking for a while—this is a major problem that bothers most people today. Although many people dismiss it as just a problem of uric acid, it is actually caused by inflammation of the muscles at the bottom of the foot. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind heel pain:
Plantar Fasciitis: The most important scientific reason for heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis. There is a strong, arch-shaped layer of tissue at the bottom of our feet that connects the heel bone to the toes, called the plantar fascia. It acts as a shock absorber while walking and running. But when there are small tears and inflammation in these due to excessive strain, severe heel pain is experienced.
Calcium growth or heel spur: In people who have been suffering from plantar fasciitis for a long time, there is constant tightness in the area where the muscles connect to the heel bone. As a result, a small piece of bone or calcium grows under the heel bone. Scientifically, this is called a heel spur. This bone growth presses on the muscles inside while walking, which is the cause of severe stabbing pain.
Obesity and heavy work (Obesity & Strain): The feet bear the entire weight of the body. When the body weight increases gradually (Obesity), the muscles in the feet experience unbearable pressure while walking and standing. In addition, those who work in jobs that require them to stand for hours at a time (teachers, security guards, kitchen workers) quickly lose strength in these muscles when they walk or stand on hard floors for long periods of time.
Improper Footwear: Regular use of shoes with hard soles or flat soles is a major cause of heel pain. Women who wear high heels often experience severe tension in the nerves and muscles of the feet. When shoes without proper cushioning support are worn, the impact of walking is directly transferred to the heel.
Uric Acid & Tendonitis: When the level of uric acid in the blood increases excessively (Gout), it forms crystals and accumulates in the joints of the heel, causing severe pain and swelling. In addition, inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon at the back of the heel, can also cause heel pain. People with flat feet are more likely to experience this pain.