Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or simply on your feet all day, persistent heel pain can significantly impact your daily life. At Umina Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing and treating heel pain to help you get back to moving comfortably.
Common causes of heel pain
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause of heel pain, often described as a sharp or stabbing sensation at the bottom of the heel. It occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Pain is usually worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Heel Spurs
A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with long-term strain on the foot muscles and ligaments. While not always painful, heel spurs can contribute to discomfort when walking or standing for prolonged periods.
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis results from overuse or strain of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It typically causes pain at the back of the heel, especially after physical activity.
Sever’s Disease (in Children and Adolescents)
Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in active children and teenagers. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel bone becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress, often linked to sports and physical activities.
Heel Bursitis
Heel bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac located at the back of the heel. This condition can result from repetitive stress or pressure from ill-fitting footwear, leading to pain and swelling in the heel area.
Other Causes
Other potential causes of heel pain include stress fractures, nerve compression, and arthritis. A thorough assessment by a podiatrist can help determine the exact cause of your discomfort.
Risk factors for heel pain
- Having tight calf muscles
- Having high or low arches
- Running excessively
- Carrying extra weight
- Having a job that requires a lot of standing or walking
How to treat heel pain
Rest and Ice Therapy
Reducing activity levels and applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching exercises targeting the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles can help improve flexibility and reduce tension on the heel.
Footwear and Orthotics
Wearing supportive shoes with proper cushioning and arch support can alleviate heel pain. Custom orthotics can also provide additional support and alignment correction.
Shockwave Therapy
At Umina Podiatry, we offer Chattanooga shockwave therapy, a non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing and reduces pain in chronic heel conditions.
Gait Analysis and Biomechanical Assessment
Using our Zebris gait analysis treadmill, we can assess your walking pattern and identify any biomechanical issues contributing to your heel pain.
Medical Interventions
In severe cases, treatments such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary, but these are typically last-resort options.
When to see a Podiatrist
If your heel pain persists despite home remedies or worsens over time, it's essential to seek professional help. At Umina Podiatry, we provide comprehensive assessments and tailored treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcome for your foot health.
Don't let heel pain hold you back! Book an appointment with Umina Podiatry today and take the first step towards pain-free movement. Chat with our friendly team today by calling (02) 4342 2878 or book online. At Umina Podiatry, we’re here to help you feel like you’re walking on air—pain-free and confident every step of the way.
Where can healthy feet take you...