The chronic autoimmune conditionankylosing spondylitis(AS) typically impacts the joints and soft tissue structures in the spine.
This article will detail how ankylosing spondylitis causes heel pain and how this less-typical symptom is commonly managed.
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What Is Heel Pain?
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Pain in the heelcan be intermittent or more chronic and constant, depending on the person.
The pain quality can also vary, from dull and achy to sharper and stabbing.
Heel pain is commonly worse first thing in the morning or after long periods of sitting.
Is Heel Pain a Symptom of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
This is because the disease isrheumatic in natureand causes widespread inflammation and pain throughout the bodys joints.
Occasionally, this includes peripheral regions like the heels, hips, shoulders, fingers, and toes.
The exactreason that AS developsin some individuals is unknown.
However, certaingenetic markerspredisposing people to get the disease have been identified.
Several classes of medications are commonly utilized.
Some healthcare providers also recommend changing your diet to reduce the intake ofinflammation-causing foods.
The research supporting this management strategy is still mixed, and more studies are needed.
Instead, several other symptoms are also usually present at the same time.
This is especially true if the symptoms are getting progressively worse or are severe.
Discussing your symptoms with an experienced professional can help identify the appropriate treatments that are available.
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes elevated levels of inflammation in the body.
When this occurs, one potential symptom is heel pain.
Many treatments can manage this disease including medications, physical therapy, dietary changes, and regular exercise.
2019;7(1):1-16. doi:10.1038/s41413-019-0057-8
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.Ankylosing spondylitis.
Spondylitis Association of America.Treatment of spondyloarthritis.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.Ankylosing spondylitis: diagnosis, treatment, and steps to take.
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