Why Does My Heel Hurt in Soccer?

If you’re experiencing heel pain, I sympathize with you! It can be downright annoying.

In the next 5 minutes, what if we can come up with a solution for the pain?

This is what I’ll try to do in this article.

First, let’s figure out the why behind your heel pain.

What Are the Common Causes of Heel Pain in Soccer?

If you’re a soccer player, you may experience heel pain at some point. Below are some common causes of heel pain and how to identify them.

Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/foot-pain

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed.

This can cause pain in the heel and arch of the foot.

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes inflamed.

This can cause pain in the back of the heel.

Not-so Fun Fact: I ruptured my Achilles in my late twenties and it was the worst pain ever! I pushed off to run in a men’s league and it tore. Had I stretched properly throughout my playing days, I’m not sure it would’ve happened. I was out for a full year. I don’t want this for you so always stretch before practices AND games!

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the underside of the heel bone. They can be caused by repetitive stress or strain on the heel, such as running or jumping.

Heel spurs can cause pain in the heel, especially when walking or standing for long periods.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel bone becomes inflamed.

This can cause pain in the back of the heel.

Blisters and Calluses

Blisters and calluses can also cause heel pain. Blisters are fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin, while calluses are thickened areas of skin.

Rather than a nagging pain, this is more of a stinging pain.

How Do I Prevent Heel Pain?

Luckily, there are several things you can do to prevent heel pain while playing soccer.

Here are a few tips:

• Wear proper footwear: Make sure you’re wearing soccer cleats that fit well and provide adequate support.
• Stretch before and after games: Take the time to stretch your calf muscles and plantar fascia before and after games to prevent injury. Dynamic stretching is recommended.
• Strengthen your lower leg muscles: Strengthening your calf muscles and Achilles tendon can help prevent injury.
• Rest and recover: Make sure you’re giving your body enough time to rest and recover between games and practices.

Sometimes be asked to play multiple games in a day. I think it’s okay if your body can handle it but be cautious that you don’t overwork yourself too much.

If you’re experiencing persistent heel pain, it’s important to see a doctor or physical therapist for an evaluation.

Sometimes it might be an underlying issue and they’ll be able to help you with a plan.

Should I Play When My Heel Hurts?

Let me preface by saying I’m not a Doctor. I don’t pretend to be one either.

With this said, I’ve been around youth sports for a while and can say that most heel pain injuries will go away on their own.

In most cases, it’s part of growing taller.

If the pain is unbearable, you should sit out. If it’s 3 out of 10 on the pain scale, you can probably play through it.

I hope this helps you understand a little more about heel pain and the underlying causes!