Hi,
The symptoms you have are suggestive of either a
calcaneal spur or plantar fasciatis. A calcaneal spur is a calcified bony outgrowth on the bottom of the heel that happens from weight bearing, walking incorrectly, wearing ill fitting shoes or if you are over weight.
This protrusion of bone causes inflammation of the tissue around it which leads to a sharp
stabbing pain. The other possibility is plantar fasciatis which can also be associated with a calcaneal spur. This is inflammation of the
connective tissue under your heel. The cause of this is similar to the above mentioned causes but is also more common in diabetics and athletes who run and jump on hard surfaces.
With plantar fasciatis, the pain worsens after the foot is rested when you attempt to walk again as this stretches the already contracted fascia. The recommended treatment for both cases would be a diagnostic X-ray ( Sometimes can be normal)Conservative treatment which includes stretching exercises, analgesia with
ibuprofen,
naproxen or
paracetamol, orthotic shoe inserts,
weight loss.
You can also try ice compressions to ease the pain.If a spur is present, rest and leg elevation will help with pain management. If you are diabetic, ensure that it is well controlled. In certain instances surgery is an option but not recommended unless conservative treatment fails. The reason for this is because there are many complications post surgery.
Hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Felicia Manickam