Often the heel pain is the result of overloading. In rare cases, can be caused by a single injury.

The heel may be swollen or tender if you:

• Spread on hard surfaces like concrete.
  Spread too often.
• Stiffness of the calf muscles or the Achilles tendon.
• Footwear has inadequate support or cushioning.
• Makes an unexpected turn of your heel inward or outward.
• Airplane with violence or stupidity on his heels.

The following measures can relieve heel pain:

• Stand as much as possible for at least a week.
• Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice daily for 10 to 15 minutes and most often in the first two days.
• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.
• Use proper-fitting shoes.
• Use heel, felt pad in the heel area, or shoe insole.
• Use night splints.
• Other treatments depend on the cause of heel pain.

Call your doctor if you have heel pain that does not improve after 2-3 weeks of treatment at home. Also call if:

• The pain is getting worse despite home treatment.
• The pain is sudden and severe.
• You have redness or swelling of the heel.
• You can not put weight on the foot

Conditions associated with heel pain include:

• Achilles tendinitis, inflammation of the large tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel.
• Bursitis, inflammation of the back of the heel.
• Bone spurs in the heel.
• Plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the thick band of tissue that is in the sole.

Maintain flexibility and muscle strength in the calves, ankles and feet can help prevent some types of heel pain. Always stretch and warm up before exercising.

Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and with good arch support and cushioning. Verify that there is enough room for your shoes.