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Heel Pain

heel pain

Do you have heel pain that is worse in the morning or when you first get up from sitting?

You are not alone; every year approximately 1 million people visit the doctor for plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis accounts for 10% of runner related injuries.

Plantar fasciitis can be quite disabling and keep you from doing your normal daily activities.

Good news! 90% of the time conservative treatment will resolve plantar fasciitis.

What causes it? Overuse, old worn out shoes, improper shoes are some of the causes of plantar fasciitis.

How to prevent it? Wear proper shoes with support, avoid drastic changes in activities or running patterns.

There are many conservative treatment options that can help with plantar fasciitis- contact your doctor for treatment options and help with this condition.

Heel pain in children between the ages of 8-12 is typically due to Sever’s disease- this is different than plantar fasciitis and is due to a growth plate injury/strain. It can be caused by overuse or may have a genetic component. Contact your doctor for treatment options.

Heel Pain (FAQs)

What are the most common causes of heel pain?
The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This is usually caused by repetitive overuse from running or other sports activities, or from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Other potential causes for heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, bursitis, fat pad atrophy, Sever’s disease, Haglund’s deformity, and arthritis. 
How do I know if my heel pain is serious?
The best way to determine if your heel pain is a serious cause for concern is to see a podiatrist who can determine the underlying cause of your pain and provide you with treatment options. It is particularly important to seek medical attention if your pain is severe, makes it difficult to walk, gets worse over time, or if your heel is swollen, numb, or tingling, or if pain is milder but lasts for more than a few weeks and does not improve with home treatment. 
What are possible treatments for heel pain? 
Home treatments for milder heel pain typically include the R.I.C.E. method. Resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected heel can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain medications may also relieve symptoms. In the doctor’s office, treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the heel pain. Conservative treatment options include activity and footwear modifications, wearing orthotics, and doing stretching and strengthening exercises. If these treatments don’t produce the desired results, other potential treatments can include immobilizing the foot with a splint or cast or injection therapy to reduce pain. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.  
Can heel pain go away on its own? 
Milder heel pain can go away on its own given rest and adequate time to heal, particularly if there is no specific underlying condition that can prevent healing or make the pain worse. Often home treatment and resting the foot can be adequate to relieve heel pain in these cases. However, heel pain should not be ignored. If you are experiencing heel pain, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will be able to find the cause of your pain and determine the best course of treatment for you. 

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