Tip 67 Heal pain Key Points: 1. Common Diagnoses: • Plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause, characterized by pain with the first steps after periods of rest. • Differential diagnoses include stress fractures, nerve entrapment, and heel pad syndrome. 2. Evaluation and Diagnosis: • Based on a thorough patient history and physical examination (including active and passive range of motion tests and palpation of tender areas). • Imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRI) is used to confirm specific diagnoses when necessary. 3. Treatment Approaches: • Conservative treatments include rest, activity modification, stretching exercises, and ice therapy. • Additional therapies involve physical therapy, orthotics, corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma injections, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. • Surgery is reserved for chronic, refractory cases. 4. Other Causes of Heel Pain: • Tendinopathies, stress fractures, bursitis, and systemic conditions like arthritis or infections.