I've Got a Pain In My Heel!

A heel bruise is commonly known as a stone bruise, policeman's heel, or a calcaneal fat pad contusion and is caused by sudden impact or repetitive pounding on the bottom of the heel. The fat pad cushions normal heel strikes and prevents the heel bone from serious injury. Repeated pounding of the heel can cause the fat pad to be pushed up against the side of the heel, leaving less of a protective layer, causing heel pain. This is a common injury in sports which require a lot of impact onto the heel. Other common ways people bruise their heel include:

• Jumping and landing from a high place.
• Running with a heel strike instead of forefoot landing, as in barefoot running.
• Stepping on something.

The fat pad can be contused (minor bleeding into the tissue), partially disrupted (split in half), or completely disrupted (torn away from the bottom of the heel bone).
So what can you do about a heel bruise? First, you need to rest and stay off the injured foot. This is the most important course of treatment we can recommend. We know it's difficult to stay off your feet, but when your health depends on it, do the best you can! Begin an icing regimen with 20 minutes on the affected area and 40 minutes off. Those with mild pain should start with putting an insole in their shoes to help with shock absorption. If you are a runner or athletes, change your shoes. Part of your problem could be that your shoes were worn out and did not offer the support you needed. Some patients may improve with a walking boot or cast.
If you ignore the pain and wait for it to get better, you are only causing more damage and preventing your injury from healing. When you have a heel bruise the best thing is to rest and ice right away. By ignoring the pain, your fat pad may become completely destroyed and may never heal. So take care of yourself!
If you are experiencing heel pain, call our Rocky Hill or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Jeffrey S. Kahn, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Heel Pain Doctor in CT
Podiatrist in Rocky Hill and Middletown, CT
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