Managing the patient with heel pain

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Musculoskeletal Medicine
• Primary Care Practice

Background:

• Heel pain is a frequent complaint in primary care, particularly among athletic and elderly populations.
• The diverse differential diagnoses and overlapping symptoms of heel pain present diagnostic challenges for clinicians.
• Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for effective patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify heel pain based on its location.
• To explore common pathologies associated with heel pain.
• To provide a framework for the investigation and management of heel pain in primary care.

Main Methods:

• Literature review to guide evidence-based practice.
• Classification of heel pain by anatomical site.
• Summary of common imaging modalities for heel pain assessment.

Main Results:

• Heel pain can be categorized by pain location, aiding differential diagnosis.
• Common pathologies include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and heel spurs.
• Evidence-based guidelines are presented for clinical investigation and management.

Conclusions:

• A structured approach to heel pain diagnosis and management is essential for primary care.
• Understanding common pathologies and utilizing appropriate investigations improves patient care.
• This review provides a framework to support clinicians in managing heel pain effectively.