HEEL PAIN LINKED TO REACTIVE ARTHRITIS

Reactive arthritis is a type of arthritis that occurs after an infection elsewhere in the body. It has a link to HLA-B27 a gene which is linked to many types of arthritis. This arthritis has a link to chlamidya, gonorrhoea and HIV. Most commonly, the infections can occur through gastrointestinal or genitourinary routes. Reactive arthritis most commonly affects: the eyes, the urinary tract and can lead to joint inflammation. Joint inflammation usually occurs in the knees, ankles, and feet.

A review in Rheumatology International listed heel pain as the second most common presenting symptom and usually asymmetrically. This is why a proper history and examination is important to help determine the cause of heel pain as it will help to reduce the chances of heel pain reoccurring and will also help treat the symptoms.