Calcaneodynia is not a diagnosis. It means nothing more than pain in the heel. That pain could be for any one of 100’s of reasons. It is a meaningless term.
The word “calcaneodynia” is a medical term that refers to pain in the heel, specifically in the area of the calcaneus, which is the bone that forms the heel of the foot. “Calcaneo” refers to the calcaneus, and “dynia” means pain. Therefore, calcaneodynia can be understood as “heel pain” or “pain in the calcaneus.”
Calcaneodynia can be caused by various factors, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis: One of the most common causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can result in pain in the back of the heel.
- Heel Spurs: Bony growths or calcium deposits that develop on the underside of the heel bone can cause pain and discomfort.
- Haglund’s Deformity: Enlargement of the bony prominence at the back of the heel, known as Haglund’s deformity or “pump bump,” can lead to heel pain and inflammation.
- Calcaneal Stress Fracture: A stress fracture, which is a small crack or break in the bone, can occur in the calcaneus due to repetitive stress or overuse.
- Other Conditions: Calcaneodynia can also be caused by conditions such as bursitis (inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs in the heel), nerve impingement, arthritis, or trauma/injury to the heel.
Treatment for calcaneodynia depends on the underlying cause and may involve a combination of conservative measures such as rest, ice, physical therapy, orthotic devices, footwear modifications, pain medication, and in some cases, surgery. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.