If you find that your heel hurts, feels hot and is swelling, relax. It is likely your problem is not related to peripheral neuropathy. It is more probable that the condition you are suffering from is either Plantar Fasciitis or Bone (heel) spurs.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results when the plantar fascia (a thin layer of strong tissue that supports the arch of the foot) is repeatedly torn. These microscopic tears may be caused by stressing out the arch, muscles weakness within the foot, tightening of the calf or foot, wearing shoes that are too small, overusing your feet by running too hard, too fast and too soon, and obesity. People who have flat feet, low arches or high arches in their feet are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

Sometimes, plantar fasciitis is mistakenly called "heel spurs". Although it is possible for a heel spur to develop from plantar fasciitis, they are not always a factor of the condition. Furthermore, heel spurs are actually bone spurs that occur on the feet. A bone spur is a bony growth that forms on natural bone. Bone spurs are often smooth but can be painful if they are pressed or rub against other bones, tendons, ligaments and other nerves in the body.

Bone spurs usually occur on the sole or back of the heel. Most bone spurs that appear on the bottom of the heel are the result of plantar fasciitis, while those that occur on the back of the heel are often caused by rubbing shoes. The most common shoe to cause bone spurs are high heels. That is why these types of bone spurs are known as "pump bumps". The forming of a bone spur is the body's effort to try and repair itself in response to prolonged rubbing, pressure or stress in the affected area.

People who suffer from plantar fasciitis and/or bone spurs can seek many different forms of treatment to help them cope with the condition and relieve symptoms. When treatment is started early most people experience relief of symptoms within six weeks, and avoid the need for surgery. However, successfully easing symptoms in some people may be difficult if the type of job they do is demanding of their feet (IE. constant walking, standing or bearing weight, etc.)

The main goal of treatment is to find a way to help an affected heel absorb shock. The best way to achieve this is to provide the heel with cushioning and elevation. This helps to divert pressure away from the plantar fascia. Special shoe inserts known as Orthotics are highly recommended for treatment. They are designed to absorb shock, elevate the back of the foot, and cradle the heel.

Wearing the right footwear is also important when it comes to treating plantar fasciitis and bone spurs. The best shoes are those that offer good arch support and a firm heel at the appropriate height. A podiatrist may be able to recommend a good shoe for your foot. However, the best person to visit is a shoe specialist known as a pedorthist.

Other forms of effective treatment include:
• Calf stretching exercises
• Stretching the Achilles tendon
• Massaging the plantar fascia by rolling the foot over a rolling pin
• Avoid walking on hard surfaces barefoot
• Foot pampering: Ice massage, heat, footbath, physical therapy, etc.
• Using a night splint to stretch the plantar fascia
• Surgery - this is rare, and is always the last treatment option.

Consult your doctor about the best treatment options that will suit your lifestyle.