What is periostitis of the heel?
Periostitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue surrounding the bone. Periostitis can affect various bony membranes, often the bony membranes of the shin, heel, knee or elbow are inflamed. The heel is the rear part of the foot, also called the heel(s).
Inflammation of the periosteum at the heel is a painful disease, which can be caused by overstraining during training or by bacteria, for example. Typically, athletes such as joggers or skiers are affected by the disease. You can find comprehensive information on this topic at periostitis
Causes
The classic cause of osteomyelitis of the heel is overloading during intensive physical activity. The periosteum consists of connective tissue and envelops almost the entire bone. Sports such as jogging or skiing promote the inflammation of the periosteum.
The traction of the muscles and their sheaths can irritate the periosteum and promote inflammation. An inflammation of the periosteum can also occur when pathogens settle. Bacteria and viruses can cause periostitis, typically in the context of inflammation of the bone marrow (osteomyelitis) or the bones (osteitis).
An inflammation of the periosteum at the heel often affects joggers. Factors such as a hard road surface, changing floor coverings and incorrect movement patterns such as sudden braking encourage irritation of the periosteum. Other risk factors for periosteitis are very intensive, one-sided training, incorrect footwear, a very tired musculature and foot malposition. If the muscles and fascia exert an increased pulling effect on the periosteum, the periosteum becomes irritated and can become inflamed. The heel, along with the shin and knee, is a susceptible site for the development of periosteitis.
Heel spur
A heel spur is a pointed bony change on the underside of the heel bone of the foot. This part of the foot is subject to high mechanical stress and can cause considerable discomfort. In the course of the disease, an inflammation of the periosteum often occurs additionally. Those affected then typically suffer from severe pain in the area of the entire heel bone, which can radiate and make walking difficult.
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