Discomfort Above the Heel
My grandfather, who is 75 years old, has been experiencing a burning discomfort in the area just above his heel for approximately six months. He describes the sensation as feeling "like fire is burning" in that region. Despite his age, he enjoys good health, with no issues such as diabetes or high cholesterol. Each morning, he takes walks and tends to his small farm after having breakfast. About five months ago, he visited a physician who examined him and concluded that there was nothing concerning, assuring him that everything appeared normal. Encouraged by my grandmother, he engaged a professional for massage therapy focused on the affected area for three months. This treatment brought some relief, notably reducing the intensity of the burning sensation, although it didn’t entirely eliminate it. However, for the past two months, my grandfather has had to discontinue the massages due to other commitments. He now reports that the sensation has evolved; instead of burning, he often feels as though a nerve is being tugged in that area. Upon standing from a seated position, he experiences a slight numbness and a noticeable limp for the first couple of minutes before he can walk normally again. Additionally, he has mentioned that the area is tender to the touch. This discomfort affects both legs, but the left side is more painful than the right. Concerned for his well-being, I am contemplating taking him to see a different doctor, though he is hesitant, having been dismissed by his previous physician. I would appreciate any insights regarding what this condition might be and what type of specialist would be most appropriate for him to visit. If there's a more suitable subreddit for this inquiry, I would be grateful for that information as well. (Please disregard any image references mentioned previously.)
Answers (1)
7/16/2025, 9:20:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your grandfather is experiencing discomfort above his heel, characterized by burning sensations, numbness, and tenderness. Given that this has persisted for six months and has now evolved, understanding the potential causes and considering appropriate next steps is important.
Possible Causes
- Tendinopathy or Tendinitis: Repetitive strain from activities like walking or farming can lead to inflammation of the tendons, particularly in the Achilles region.
- Nerve Compression: Conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause nerve-related symptoms such as burning and numbness.
- Poor Circulation: Although he does not have known vascular issues, age-related changes can sometimes affect blood flow, leading to discomfort and symptoms when standing.
Recommended Next Steps
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Pursue a Second Opinion: It’s understandable that your grandfather may be hesitant due to the previous physician's dismissal. However, seeking a second opinion could provide a fresh perspective. Look for a specialist in orthopedics or neurology, as they deal specifically with musculoskeletal and nerve-related issues respectively.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document the details of his symptoms, including when they occur, intensity, duration, and any factors that alleviate or worsen them. This information can help the specialist in making a more accurate diagnosis.
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Gentle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Encourage him to engage in low-impact exercises, focusing on flexibility and strengthening the muscles around the ankle and foot. Practice gentle calf stretches to relieve tension, and consider incorporating balance exercises when he feels comfortable.
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Footwear Assessment: Ensure that your grandfather's shoes provide proper support. Ill-fitting shoes can contribute to discomfort in the heel and surrounding areas.
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Monitor Symptoms: If there is an increase in numbness, swelling, or changes in mobility, act quickly by revisiting a healthcare professional.
Final Thoughts
It's important to address this discomfort, particularly as it impacts his mobility and quality of life. A knowledgeable specialist can guide further testing or imaging if necessary. Encourage your grandfather to keep an open mind about seeking additional medical advice, as persistent pain is often worth investigating further.
If you're looking for supportive communities online, consider subreddits like r/AskDocs or r/ChronicPain for sharing experiences and seeking insights from others facing similar issues.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification.
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