Neuromas of the heel

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Neurology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Heel pain is a common complaint with various potential causes.
• Heel spur syndrome has historically been a frequent diagnosis for heel pain.
• Neuroma of the medial calcaneal branch of the posterior tibial nerve is often overlooked.

Purpose of the Study:

• To differentiate between heel spur syndrome and heel neuroma as causes of heel pain.
• To raise awareness among physicians about the possibility of heel neuroma.
• To provide insights into the accurate diagnosis of heel pain.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical diagnostic practices for heel pain.
• Clinical analysis of patient cases presenting with heel pain.
• Differential diagnosis exploration focusing on nerve entrapment.

Main Results:

• Heel pain is frequently misattributed to calcaneal exostosis (heel spurs).
• Evidence suggests that heel neuroma is a more common cause of heel pain than previously recognized.
• The medial calcaneal branch of the posterior tibial nerve is implicated in these cases.

Conclusions:

• Heel neuroma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of heel pain.
• Accurate diagnosis can prevent misdiagnosis as heel spur syndrome.
• Understanding nerve involvement is crucial for effective heel pain management.