Study of Heel Pain in Rheumatic Diseases.

Background: The differential diagnosis of heel and foot pain is extensive, but the most common is mechanical etiology. The anatomic location of the pain can aid in diagnosis. Plantar fasciitis is the most common diagnosis, resulting in medial plantar heel pain, particularly with the first weight-bearing steps after rest. Objective: We tried to describe most common causes of non-traumatic heel pain in our locality. Patients and methods: The current study was prospectively conducted between May 2019 and May 2020. The study enrolled 100 patients who were complaining of heel pain. Full history evaluation and clinical assessment were done in all patients Results: Mean age of enrolled patients was 39.92 ± 14.49 years with range between 18 and 68 years. The majority (52%) of enrolled patients were females and 48 (48%) patients were males. Based on clinical, laboratory and radiological findings of enrolled patients; 45 (45%) had planter fasciitis, 32 (32%) had heel spur and 23 (23%) had Achilles tendinitis. Conclusion: Non-traumatic heel pain is a common issue in the clinical practice. Planter fasciitis is considered the most frequent etiology of such pain in our setting. Comparative studies between different available modalities for management of heel pain are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]