What is talalgia?
It is a pain that appears in the heel, since it is the part of the foot that cushions the impact when we carry out physical activity. Inflammation of the area is produced and it is very frequent in people who practice sports.
What are the causes?
The causes that can generate a talalgia are very varied, among them:
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Calcaneal spur.
- Myofascial trigger point (PGM).
- Myositis.
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome.
In addition to the above, not wearing the right footwear will intensify heel pain and discomfort. Wearing shoes that are too flat or too high heeled also promotes the onset of heel pain.
What are the symptoms of heel pain?
The identification of the symptoms of talalgia are largely mechanical in origin. This condition presents the following symptoms:
- Pain that moves from the heel to the sole of the foot.
- Sensation of numbness in the area where the first discomfort appears.
- Positive tinel and inflammation of nerves.
- Discomfort in the inner region of the ankle.
How is it diagnosed?
In order to make a differential diagnosis, a detailed clinical history and a correct and thorough physical examination should include a global examination of the lower extremity in both loading and unloading.
In this way it will be possible to conclude what is the cause of the pain and what treatment is the appropriate one to solve it.
What is the treatment to follow?
The cure of talalgia requires time. It is an ailment that takes time to disappear, but with proper treatment it is possible to reverse the discomfort. The main treatment guideline is rest, since the simple fact of supporting the heel aggravates the injury.
But we cannot always rest as long as necessary, that is why it is necessary to count on alternative methods that will depend on the cause of the talalgia. When the origin is a calcaneal spur, corticosteroid infiltrations will be necessary in order to reduce inflammation. When the cause is plantar fasciitis, orthopedic insoles may be used.
However, whatever the cause, it will be convenient to perform physiotherapy sessions. Only in those cases in which the pain does not disappear, surgical treatment of the injury can be resorted to.
How can it be prevented?
To avoid the talalgia or that the discomfort reappears, it is advisable to lose weight, to use the suitable footwear as much for the sport practice as in our day to day, to use orthopedic insoles or pads in the heel and to avoid running on asphalt and hard surfaces.
Which specialist treats it?
The podiatrist will be the specialist in charge of the diagnosis and treatment of talalgia, since he or she deals with the problems and care of the feet.