Heel Pain

HEEL PAIN

CAUSES

• Obesity
• Ill-fitting shoes
• Running and jumping on hard surfaces
• Abnormal walking style
• Injuries

TYPES

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Heel fracture
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Calcaneal spur

SYMPTOMS

Plantar fasciitis

• Stabbing pain near the heel
• Pain might be worse in the morning, with prolonged standing, running, or jumping
• Limping, swelling, tenderness

Achilles tendonitis

• Heel pain and tenderness
• Stiffness
• Swelling and tenderness

Bursitis

• Pain at the back of the heel, especially with walking, running, or when the area is touched
• Pain may worsen when standing on tiptoes
• Red, warm skin over the back of the heel

Heel fracture

• Inability to put weight on the heel
• Swelling of the heel
• Bruising of the heel and ankle
• Usually severe pain with acute management

Achilles tendon rupture

• Feeling of having been kicked in the calf
• Pain, possibly severe, and swelling near the heel
• Inability to bend the foot downward or push off the leg when walking
• Inability to stand on the toes
• Popping or snapping sound when the injury occurs

Calcaneal spur

• Intermittent or chronic pain, especially while walking, jogging, or running
• Pain experienced during weight-bearing activities, in the morning, or after a period of rest

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF VATAKANTAKA

In Ayurveda, heel pain, often attributed to conditions like plantar fasciitis or calcaneal spur, is typically addressed through a holistic approach focusing on reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and strengthening the affected area.

• Massage with Herbal Oils: Massaging the affected heel with warm herbal oils like Mahanarayan oil or Murivenna oil can help reduce inflammation and promote circulation. Warm the oil slightly and gently massage it into the heel area for about 10-15 minutes daily.

• Herbal Poultices (Kizhi): Prepare herbal poultices using herbs like ginger, turmeric, and garlic. Heat these herbs in a cloth poultice and apply it to the affected heel area for relief from pain and inflammation.

• Herbal Supplements: Ayurvedic herbs like Shallaki (Boswellia), Guggulu, and Ashwagandha may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. These herbs can be taken internally in the form of capsules or powders, as per the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

• Ayurvedic Diet: Follow a diet that includes anti-inflammatory foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like ghee and olive oil. Avoiding spicy, fried, and processed foods can help reduce inflammation in the body.

• Yoga and Stretching Exercises: Practice gentle stretching exercises and yoga postures specifically targeting the feet and calves. Poses like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), and Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose) can help stretch and strengthen the muscles and ligaments of the feet and ankles.

• Foot Soaks: Soaking the feet in warm water mixed with Epsom salt or rock salt can help relax the muscles, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from pain.

• Rest and Foot Support: Avoid excessive walking or standing for prolonged periods to prevent further strain on the heels. Using supportive footwear and orthotic inserts can help provide cushioning and support to the heels and arches.