Do you feel a sharp pain in your heel when you first step on the ground, like a needle pricking or stepping on a stone? But after walking for a short distance, this pain sometimes feels a little relieved. This condition is a major problem that bothers many people today, especially women. This is due to the inflammation of the thick layer of cells called ‘Plantar Fascia’ at the bottom of our feet. Scientifically, it is called Plantar Fasciitis. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind heel pain:
Micro-tears in Plantar Fascia: The plantar fascia is a bow-like part that helps maintain the shape of our foot and absorb the impacts (shock absorber) when we walk. But due to excessive pressure, very small tears (Micro-tears) occur in these cells. This can cause severe inflammation and pain there.
Heel Spur / Calcaneal Spur: When inflammation in the plantar fascia persists for a long time, the body starts depositing calcium to protect that area. This causes new bone to grow on the calcaneus bone like a small thorn. This is scientifically called a heel spur. This area presses on the tissues while walking, causing severe pain.
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with hard soles or shoes that do not provide proper support for the arch are the main causes of heel pain. Also, when women regularly use high heels, their entire body weight is concentrated on the front of the foot and the heel, causing severe muscle tension and swelling.
Prolonged Standing: Teachers, kitchen workers, and security guards are at high risk of developing heel pain. Standing on a hard floor for hours on end can cause your entire body weight to sink into your feet, putting severe strain and damage to the plantar fascia cells.
Obesity & Flat Feet: As your body weight increases, the pressure on your feet doubles. In addition, in people who are born with flat feet and high arches, the weight is not evenly distributed while walking, which increases pressure on the heels.
