Why does the back of my heel pain? Causes and Solutions

Heel pain can be debilitating, affecting your mobility and daily comfort.

If you’re experiencing pain at the back of your heel, it could stem from various conditions—from Achilles tendon issues to fractures. Understanding the cause is the first step toward effective treatment.

At Madhu Hand Surgery and Orthopedic Center, Hebbal, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heel pain with advanced, personalized care.

Common Causes of Back-of-Heel Pain

1. Achilles Tendonitis

• What it is: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon (the thick band connecting calf muscles to the heel bone).
• Symptoms: Sharp or burning pain at the back of the heel, stiffness, swelling.
• Causes: Overuse (running, jumping), tight calf muscles, improper footwear.

2. Haglund’s Deformity (“Pump Bump”)

• What it is: A bony enlargement on the back of the heel, often aggravated by high heels or rigid shoes.
• Symptoms: Redness, swelling, pain when wearing shoes.

3. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

• What it is: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) between the Achilles tendon and heel bone.
• Symptoms: Tenderness, swelling at the back of the heel, worse with pressure.

4. Heel Fractures

• What it is: A break in the heel bone (calcaneus), often due to trauma (falls, car accidents).
• Symptoms: Severe pain, bruising, inability to bear weight.

5. Plantar Fasciitis (Referred Pain)

• What it is: Though typically causing bottom of heel pain, severe cases can radiate to the back.
• Symptoms: Stabbing pain, worst in the morning.

---

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult the best heel pain doctor in Bangalore if you experience:
✔ Persistent pain lasting more than 2 weeks
✔ Swelling, redness, or warmth in the heel
✔ Difficulty walking or bearing weight
✔ Numbness or tingling (possible nerve involvement)

Dr. Madhusudhan NC, a renowned orthopedic specialist in Hebbal, provides accurate diagnosis and tailored treatments for heel pain.

---

Effective Treatments for Heel hurt

1. Non-Surgical Solutions

• Rest & Ice: Reduces inflammation.
• Orthotics & Supportive Shoes: Best heel pain relief shoes or sandals for heel hurt can alleviate pressure.
• Physical Therapy: Stretches for the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
• Medications: NSAIDs for pain relief.

2. Advanced Medical Treatments

• Shockwave Therapy: Stimulates healing for chronic cases.
• Steroid Injections: Reduces severe inflammation.

3. Surgical Options (Rarely Needed)

• Achilles Tendon Repair
• Bone Spur Removal
• Fracture Fixation

At Madhu Hand Surgery and Orthopedic Center, we prioritize minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery.

---

Preventing Heel Pain

• Wear proper footwear (avoid high heels for long duration).
• Stretch regularly (focus on calves and Achilles).
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce heel pressure.
• Use cushioned insoles if you stand for long hours.

---

📞 Suffering from heel pain? Consult Dr. Madhusudhan NC, the best heel pain specialist in Bangalore, today!