Heel Pain Relief Methods and Causes

Heel pain refers to the discomfort felt on one or both sides of the heel, often without redness or swelling. This condition can make walking difficult. Heel pain, also known as plantar fasciitis, is caused by pathologies in the bone, joints, bursae, and fascia of the heel.

It is important to seek prompt and targeted treatment for heel pain. There are also some traditional remedies that can be used to alleviate heel pain.

Best Traditional Remedies for Heel Pain

1. Fresh Xanthium sibiricum leaves can be effective for relieving heel pain. The specific method is to place several fresh leaves inside the sock on the heel area, and replace them with new leaves every 24 hours. This treatment is usually effective after seven applications.

2. Stone rubbing can also be used to treat heel pain. A small, egg-shaped stone is used to gently rub the affected area, gradually increasing the pressure. This should be done twice daily for 20 minutes each time, and the pain should resolve within a month.

3. Boiling the roots and stems of the nail grass (also known as impatiens) in water can also help alleviate heel pain. Five or six stems, approximately 30 cm tall, are washed and placed in an enamel or aluminum footbasin. Boil the water until it covers the feet, add a pinch of salt, and stir gently. As the water is initially very hot, a cotton pad can be used to cover the basin and allow the feet to be gently steamed. Then, soak the feet repeatedly until the water cools. Repeat this process the next day, adding water as needed, and continue for five consecutive days. Gradually, the pain should diminish.

What is Heel Pain?

Heel pain, also known as plantar fasciitis, refers to discomfort felt on one or both sides of the heel, without redness or swelling, which can make walking difficult. This condition is caused by pathologies in the bone, joints, bursae, and fascia of the heel. A common cause is plantar fasciitis, which often occurs in individuals who stand or walk for extended periods and is caused by chronic, minor injuries.

Lateral X-rays may reveal heel spurs, but the presence of spurs does not necessarily indicate heel pain, and plantar fasciitis does not always involve spurs.

Treatment options for heel pain include surgical intervention, physical therapy, and medication.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is caused by pathologies in the bone, joints, bursae, and fascia of the heel. These pathologies can lead to discomfort and make walking difficult.