Heel pain may occur when the Achilles' tendon, which runs up the back of the heel, suffers damage, inflammation, or degeneration. With Achilles' tendinitis, the tendon becomes inflamed. A separate yet related problem, Achilles' tendinosis, occurs when the tendon actually degrades—much like a rope fraying. Because the symptoms and treatment of these two problems are virtually the same, you may not know whether you have Achilles' tendinitis or tendinosis unless you ask your doctor. Many patients have both disorders. But it's good to know, because if you develop Achilles' tendinosis, it's vital that you take steps to protect your tendon from further structural damage.
Heel pain can be caused by many conditions, but most commonly by plantar fasciitis.
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