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General Discussion

An uncommon cause of heel pain is ankylosing spondylitis. This condition is a chronic progressive arthritis characterized by involvement of the sacro-iliac joints, which are located in the lower back near the hip joints. The onset of this condition generally occurs in the 20’s and 30’s. Ninety percent of the patients are male. In approximately 30% of the cases hip and knee joint pain may occur.
This condition can be limited to very subtle symptoms of hip or low back pain or may progress to significant spinal deformity. This condition can be difficult to diagnosis. A blood test may revel a blood marker called HLA-B27. The presence of this blood marker can occur in people who do not have this condition.

Treatment

A qualified family practice physician, interest or rheumatologist should manage treatment for the generalized symptoms of the disease. Your podiatrist can manage the localized treatment of heel pain associated with this condition. This may include cortisone injections, calf stretching and special inserts for the shoes called orthotics.

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This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. American Health Network disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.

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