A bruised heel is a type of injury that can occur when you fall or twist your foot. The heel is a common area for bruises because it is made up of bone and soft tissue. When you bruise your heel, the blood vessels in the area break and bleed. This can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness. If you think you have a bruised heel, it is important to see a doctor so they can rule out any other potential injuries.
Causes
There are many things that can cause a bruised heel. Walking or running on hard surfaces, like concrete, can put stress on the heels and cause bruising. Wearing high heels can also contribute to bruising, as well as shoes that are too tight or have thin soles. Sometimes underlying medical conditions, like diabetes, can increase the risk of bruising. And finally, age can play a role in bruising; as we get older, our skin becomes thinner and bruises happen more easily.
Symptoms
A bruised heel can feel like a sharp pain when walking or standing. The pain may also radiate up the leg. In some cases, the bruise may be visible on the skin as a black-and-blue mark. The pain from a bruised heel typically improves within a few days. However, if the pain persists or gets worse, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation.
Diagnosis
There are several tests that can be performed in order to diagnose a bruised heel. An x-ray may be taken in order to rule out any fractures. A bone scan can also be helpful in diagnosing a bruise, as it can show areas of increased blood flow to the area. In some cases, an MRI may also be ordered.
Treatment
There are a number of ways you can treat a bruised heel. The most important thing is to rest the foot and keep the weight off of it as much as possible. You can also apply ice to the area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help reduce swelling and pain. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication if needed. If the bruise is severe, you may need to see a doctor for further treatment.
Prevention
A bruised heel can be a very painful injury. There are a few things you can do to prevent this type of injury. First, always wear shoes that fit well and support your feet. Second, avoid walking or running on hard surfaces barefoot. Third, take care of any foot problems you have, such as bunions or hammertoes. If you do develop a bruise on your heel, ice the area and keep weight off of your foot as much as possible.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors for developing bruised heels. First, people who are overweight or obese are more likely to have heel pain and bruises. This is because the extra weight puts more pressure on the feet and can cause the fat pad on the bottom of the heel to thin out. People who are flat-footed or have high arches are also at a higher risk for bruised heels, as these foot types put extra strain on the heel. Other risk factors include wearing shoes that don’t fit well, having weak ankle muscles, or having a job that requires a lot of standing or walking.
If you are prone to bruising easily, you may be at a higher risk of developing bruised heels. This is because the thinner skin on your heels is more likely to be damaged when exposed to excessive pressure or friction.
Complications
There are several potential complications that can arise from a bruised heel. One is called compartment syndrome, which is a condition in which the muscles and nerves in the foot become compressed. This can lead to pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, it can eventually cause permanent damage to the affected area. Another complication is called plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes. This can also cause pain and stiffness in the foot and make it difficult to walk. In severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve the symptoms.
Conclusion
There are a few things you can do to speed up the healing process and get back on your feet as soon as possible.
First, it is important to rest and avoid any activity that puts stress on your heel. This means no running, jumping, or other high-impact activities. You should also avoid wearing shoes that put pressure on your heel, like high heels.
Second, you can try ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain. Put an ice pack on your heel for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Third, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with the pain.
Finally, if you do not see any improvement after two weeks of self-care measures, make an appointment with a doctor or podiatrist.
Published on August 24, 2022 and Last Updated on August 24, 2022 by: Mayank Pandey
