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What Should a Gymnast Do About Heel Pain?

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, for every mile you walk you put approximately 60 tons of stress on each foot. For gymnasts, who contort their bodies and jump repeatedly, pounding the floor, this applies even more so. Gymnasts are more susceptible to injury--in particular, heel pain. When this occurs, it’s important to take measures that accelerate healing and prevent further injury.

  1. Diagnosis

    • If you feel heel pain, cease all physical activity and remove your apparatus or vault shoes immediately. If you notice a swollen red mound around the heel, elevate your foot and ice it until the swelling decreases. Try to rest your foot and not put any additional pressure on it. Schedule an appointment with an orthopedist or podiatrist as soon as possible. Heel injuries typically fall into two categories: pain beneath the heel or pain behind the heel. Your doctor can diagnose which one applies to you and prescribe a treatment plan.

    Pain Beneath The Heel

    • There are several possible reasons for pain and discomfort on the sole of the foot. A stone bruise is usually the result of constant pounding on a hard surface. The pad of your heel may even be slightly discolored. You can remedy this by resting your foot. Another possibility is a condition called plantar fasciitis, or subcalcaneal pain, the result of excessive running and jumping, which puts strain on the band of fascia connecting the heel to the toes. Usually, the pain is localized under your heel. However, after resting overnight, it usually flares up in the morning when you take a step. A doctor may recommend therapeutic exercises and prescribe medication to reduce the swelling, along with having you wear a pad to protect your heel. If the pain continues for a long time, you may develop a heel spur, a calcium formation on the heel bone that can vary in size. The treatment for a heel spur is usually the same as for plantar fasciitis.

    Pain Behind The Heel

    • This kind of pain is in the area where the Achilles' tendon attaches to the heel bone. This condition is the result of excessive running and improper footwear. Over time, the pain increases, along with redness and inflammation. Usually, the swelling is so great that wearing shoes is painful. Gymnasts should make sure their vaulting or apparatus shoes support their feet properly and aren’t too tight. Treatment for this condition involves rest, medication and exercises that stretch the Achilles' tendon. A doctor also may recommend wearing a 3/8-inch or ½-inch heel insert and icing your heel when pain occurs.

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