Opt Ortho contains affiliate links. OrthoLoneStar may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
Do you find yourself suffering from a sharp pain in your heel, particularly first thing in the morning? While the sensation may catch you off guard, it’s a lot more common than you may think. Most sufferers of morning heel pain tend to describe it as a sharp or stabbing pain that begins at the heel and shoots up through the foot. This type of pain gradually improves throughout the day especially once you get moving. We’ll explore what might be causing it and what you can do to alleviate the pain.
The Most Common Cause: Plantar Fasciitis
The most likely cause behind your morning heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis. At the bottom of your foot is a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. When this band becomes inflamed it can create an uncomfortable and sharp pain in your foot. This band can also contract and tighten in your sleep while your foot is at rest, leading to heel pain in the mornings. Plantar fasciitis treatment can differ depending on your individual needs. Stretching, rest, heat/ice therapy, and physical therapy are a great place to start. Even switching to more supportive footwear or opting for extra cushioning under your heels, like with Tuli’s Heavy Duty Gel Heel Cups, can help to reduce pressure on your feet while you’re active.
Other Possible Causes
While plantar fasciitis tends to be the culprit in situations like these, it’s not the only possible answer. Achilles tendinitis can also spark pain and discomfort in the back of your heel, especially after long periods of rest. If you’ve been dealing with a lot of stress and inflammation in your body as of late, you could also be experiencing heel spurs, which is when small calcium deposits form on the heel bone. There are other possible causes, but it’s best to see a physician who can properly evaluate and diagnose your condition.
Conclusion
Morning heel pain can be a nuisance to deal with, but figuring out what’s causing it is the first step in alleviating that discomfort. From there it’s just about getting the right supportive tools and working with your physician on a customized treatment plan. If you’re experiencing this pain make sure you address it as taking care of your feet now can go a long way in preventing any chronic pain later on.
