Several conditions can affect the heel, leading to pain, discomfort, or inflammation. Below are some of the most common diseases and disorders associated with the heel:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

• Description: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. It’s one of the most common causes of heel pain.
• Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing pain, especially in the morning or after periods of rest.

2. Heel Spur (Calcaneal Spur)

• Description: A bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis. It develops due to calcium deposits that form over time due to stress on the heel.
• Symptoms: Sharp pain in the heel, especially when walking or standing.

3. Achilles Tendonitis

• Description: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is common in runners and athletes who put repetitive stress on the tendon.
• Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, particularly after physical activity.

4. Sever’s Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis)

• Description: A condition affecting growing children and adolescents, where the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress.
• Symptoms: Heel pain, particularly during or after physical activities like running or jumping.

5. Bursitis

• Description: Inflammation of the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac) near the heel, often caused by repetitive motion or pressure. It can occur at the back of the heel (retrocalcaneal bursitis) or under the heel.
• Symptoms: Swelling, tenderness, and pain in the heel area.

6. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Description: Compression of the tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, located near the ankle and heel. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.
• Symptoms: Burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the heel, along with numbness in the foot.

7. Stress Fracture

• Description: Tiny cracks in the heel bone (calcaneus) due to overuse or repetitive high-impact activities, such as running or jumping.
• Symptoms: Heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

8. Heel Pad Syndrome

• Description: The heel pad, which cushions the heel bone, becomes damaged or worn out, leading to pain. This can occur due to aging, obesity, or wearing shoes with poor cushioning.
• Symptoms: Deep, dull ache in the center of the heel.

9. Haglund’s Deformity (Pump Bump)

• Description: A bony enlargement on the back of the heel caused by friction from shoes, particularly high-heeled or stiff shoes. This condition is often seen in women who wear pumps or heels.
• Symptoms: Pain, redness, and swelling at the back of the heel, particularly where the Achilles tendon attaches.

10. Peripheral Neuropathy

• Description: A condition where nerve damage affects sensation in the feet, including the heel. It is commonly seen in people with diabetes.
• Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the heel and foot.

11. Fat Pad Atrophy

• Description: The natural fatty padding under the heel thins out over time, causing reduced cushioning and increased stress on the heel bone.
• Symptoms: Deep heel pain, especially when standing for long periods.

12. Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Description: An autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation in the joints, including those in the heel. Heel pain in rheumatoid arthritis is often due to inflammation of the tissues surrounding the heel.
• Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the heel and other joints.

13. Gout

• Description: A type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Gout can affect the heel and cause sudden, intense pain.
• Symptoms: Severe pain, redness, and swelling in the heel, often occurring at night or after a rich meal.

14. Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

• Description: A condition that occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed or torn. This can lead to flat feet and heel pain.
• Symptoms: Pain along the inside of the ankle and heel, along with a flattening of the arch.

These heel-related conditions can vary in severity, but they all typically require medical attention, supportive care, and lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms and promote healing.