Heel Pain affected by Fat Mass Index and not Body Mass

A recent community-based study has showed that an increase in fat mass index (FMI) and not body mass index (BMI) is associated with both current and future foot pain. The study’s authors shared, “The clinical implications of our findings are that FMI but not BMI is associated with both prevalent and the development of foot pain after multivariable analysis in adults age > 50 years. Given the association of FMI with future foot pain, patients with increased fat are at risk of developing foot pain and should be counselled as such, particularly given increased fat mass is modifiable and should not be considered as a chronic condition.”  

Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. If your heel is hurting consult with one of our podiatrists from Connecticut Foot Care Centers, LLC. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

Causes of Heel Pain

• Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
• Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
• Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                     
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change             
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.  

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices located in Connecticut. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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