Periosteum inflammation on the heel

What is periosteum inflammation on the heel?

An inflammation of the periosteum, Periostitis, is inflammation of the connective tissue that surrounds the bone. Periostitis can affect various bony membranes; the bony membranes of the shin, heel, knee or elbow are often inflamed. The heel is the back of the foot, also called the heel (s). Periosteum inflammation on the heel is a painful disease that can be caused, for example, by excessive exercise during exercise or by bacteria. Typically, athletes, such as joggers or skiers, are affected by the disease.

You can find comprehensive information on the subject at: Periosteum inflammation

causes

The classic cause of periosteum inflammation on the heel is excessive stress during intense physical activity. The periosteum consists of connective tissue and covers almost the entire bone. Sports such as jogging or skiing promote inflammation of the bone membranes. The tensile force of the muscles and their sheaths can lead to irritation of the periosteum and promote inflammation.

In addition, periosteum inflammation can develop when pathogens settle. Bacteria and viruses can cause periostitis, typically as part of bone marrow inflammation (Osteomyelitis) or a bone inflammation (Osteitis).

to jog

Periosteum inflammation of the heel often affects joggers. Factors such as a hard road surface, changing floor surfaces and incorrect movement sequences such as sudden braking encourage irritation of the bony membranes. Other risk factors of periosteum inflammation are very intensive, one-sided training, incorrect footwear, extremely tired muscles and foot deformities.

If the muscles and fasciae exert an increased pulling effect on the bony membranes, they are irritated and can become inflamed. Along with the shin and knee, the heel is a prone part of the body to develop periosteum inflammation.

Read more on the topic: Inflammation of the bone skin on the coccyx

Heel spur

A heel spur is a sharp bone change on the underside of the calcaneus on the foot. This part of the foot is mechanically stressed and can cause considerable discomfort. In the course of the disease, periosteum inflammation often occurs. 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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These symptoms can be used to identify periosteum inflammation on the heel

Periosteum inflammation on the heel causes typical inflammation symptoms. The affected heel is usually swollen, red, and warm. The mobility of the foot is limited and the heel is extremely tender and causes severe pain when moving.

If the inflammation is severe, the pain in the heel can occur even at rest, i.e. without putting any strain on the affected foot. As the healing progresses, the pain subsides. If you start exercising too early, the pain will increase again and the inflammation will flare up.

The sick also often suffer from a start-up pain that occurs after a long break in movement.

You might also be interested in this article: Inflammation of the foot

Starting pain

If you sit or lie down for a long time and then want to start running and suddenly pain shoot into your heel while moving, this is called starting pain. Startup pain is a possible symptom of periosteum inflammation on the heel. The pain is often described as dull and subsides with movement.

diagnosis

First of all, the doctor has a conversation with the person concerned about the symptoms, the course of the disease and concomitant diseases. Then the affected heel is physically examined, typically side by side with the healthy heel. When palpating, the doctor can determine the inflammation using the classic signs of inflammation redness, swelling, warming, (pressure) pain and restricted mobility.

A blood test is usually also done. Further diagnostic measures, such as x-rays, are rarely necessary to establish the diagnosis of periosteum inflammation.

treatment

Depending on the cause of the periosteum inflammation on the heel, targeted treatment follows. For example, if there is bacterial inflammation, antibiotic therapy is necessary to eliminate the bacteria. If you are overburdened by intense sporting activities, you need to rest, cool and treat pain.

It makes sense to take painkillers that also have anti-inflammatory effects, for example agents with the active ingredient ibuprofen or diclofenac. It is very important to take it easy on the body until it is completely healed.

Read more on the topic: This is how long periosteum inflammation lasts

Sports break

Immobilization of the heel and physical rest are important aspects of healing periosteum inflammation on the heel. The healing process can be lengthy depending on the cause and treatment. If you return to exercise too soon, the inflammation often relapses. It is therefore important to start training slowly again after the symptoms have completely subsided.

Read more on the topic: Inflammation of the bone skin on the coccyx

Tape

Tape can be used for periosteum inflammation on the heel to stabilize the tissue and build tension. The tension is said to promote blood circulation and healing. It is not a measure that will cure the periosteum. Nonetheless, you can tap the heel if it feels good for the person concerned and possibly even relieves pain when moving.

Please also read our detailed article on the: Kinesio tape

These home remedies can help

In principle, all cooling home remedies are effective in relieving the symptoms of inflammation, such as swelling and warming. Cooling pads and moist compresses with cold water are good ways to cool the affected tissue on the heel. Quark wraps that can be wrapped around the affected heel are also ideal.

Quark wraps cool the heel, relieve pain and swelling and also have an anti-inflammatory effect. In the later course of the disease, cold and warm alternating baths can be beneficial.

homeopathy

Homeopathic globules can be used as a supplement to therapy. Taking antibiotics is particularly important in the case of bacterial periosteum inflammation and cannot be replaced by homeopathic remedies.

Ruta graveolens Globules can be taken in the case of periosteum inflammation on the heel. Calcium, Silicea, Lycopodium and especially Mercurius solubilis are also popular.

When do you need cortisone?

Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory drug that is used to treat complicated periosteum inflammation. In some cases periosteum inflammation is persistent and protracted and may be accompanied by concomitant diseases or an immune deficiency, which delays the healing process.

Cortisone can be an effective treatment for such complicated, chronic periosteum infections.

Healing time

Depending on the cause of the periostitis, the duration of healing can vary. Periosteum inflammation caused by bacteria is often associated with osteomyelitis, so that the healing process depends on the underlying disease and this must be specifically treated.

At the same time, periosteum inflammation on the heel caused by overload can heal within a few weeks or last for several months. The healing time for athletes is strongly influenced by the break in sports. An intensive, too early return to sport can significantly extend the healing time and let the inflammation flare up again.

You can find extensive information under our topic: How long does periosteum inflammation last!