Experiencing sudden heel pain can occur from a variety of circumstances and conditions. When you suffer a sudden injury to your heel, you appreciate all the stress and pressure it has faithfully absorbed up until that time. Be sure to see your foot doctor and get back on your feet as soon as possible.

3 causes of sudden pain in the heel include the following conditions:

• Heel bone fracture—A fracture to the heel bone can occur from a fall or accident or any activity that causes a hard landing on your feet. This can happen when playing tennis or basketball, for example, and the pain is the heel bone cracks that can be excruciating.
• Heel calluses and fissures—Calluses can take a lot of time to develop, but when a thick callus suddenly ruptures due to excess stress, weight, and pressure the heel fissure that occurs can be incredibly painful and challenging to treat. Heel fissures can be dry and crumbly, and cracks can bleed and become infected.
• Achilles tendon tear or break—The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon, and it connects your calf muscle to the back of your heel, making it possible to walk, stand, and exercise. Since tendons stretch and weaken as we, age older folks and people who play vigorous sports can experience a debilitating tear that causes a loud popping sound and intense pain.

Many of the less severe instances of heel pain will get better on their own with simple rest, icing, and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. In cases of sudden heel pain, the cause may not be entirely obvious since conditions can mimic each other and cause radiating pain. Always see your foot doctor because incorrect diagnosis and improper treatment could lead to further damage and pain.

If you are experiencing pain in your heel, seeing your podiatrist is the best way to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Kathleen Pyatak-Hugar, and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.