Heel Pain

[Rosscoe]

Just under 2 weeks ago I began to notice pain in both my heels. It was barely noticeable at first, but within a couple of days was very painful in the mornings. I looked up PF and it seemed to match what I was experiencing, and made an appointment to see a doctor straightaway. I was told I probably had achilles tendinitis

It is unusual to get this in both feet at the same time, without some kind of specific cause. I exercise about once a week at the moment and am in pretty good physical shape - I have suffered no injury from sports, and neither is it caused by over-exercise.

Since the appointment I have developed bruising on the instep-side of each heel, which is very tender when pressed. I feel pain on the bottom of my heels when standing, but not when applying pressure manually. THe bruising is beginning to spread to the outstep of one foot, and the heel instep is very tender and warm after a short walk.

I have been researching both conditions and neither seem to mention bruising as being common. My achilles itself does not appear to hurt.

I suppose I'm just wondering whether anyone has any views on the diagnosis.

[Rosscoe]

On returning to the doctor, he became concerned at the swelling and redness, which is not consistent with achilles tendinitis. I have had some blood tests and x-rays for rheumatoid arthritis. On reading up on the condition, I'm afraid to say that it sounds very likely that that is what I have.

I am surviving on painkillers. Some mornings walking can be very painful for several hours.

Just thought I would update, as I haven't seen any site that links heel pain to RA, as it usually starts in the fingers and toes. I just hope my other joints can stay healthy!