Heel Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints seen in podiatry. While it often stems from plantar fasciitis—also known as heel spur syndrome—there are many potential causes. Identifying the correct source is key to developing an effective treatment plan.

What Causes Heel Pain?

While plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause, heel pain can also result from:

• Arthritis – inflammation of the joints
• Tendonitis – inflammation of tendons near the heel
• Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae)
• Nerve irritation or entrapment
• Stress fractures of the heel bone
• Loss of heel fat padding, often due to age or overuse
• Heel cysts – rare, but possible causes of chronic pain

A thorough evaluation by a podiatric physician will include physical examination, gait analysis, and possibly imaging to pinpoint the exact cause.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel bone across the bottom of your foot. It acts like a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot.

Signs of Plantar Fasciitis Include:

• Sharp heel pain when taking the first steps in the morning
• Pain after long periods of standing or walking
• Stiffness after sitting that eases slightly with movement
• Worsening discomfort at the end of the day

This condition is commonly seen in runners, people who are overweight, and those who wear unsupportive footwear.

How Is Heel Pain Treated?

Most patients improve with conservative, non-surgical treatments. Common recommendations include:

• Avoid going barefoot to minimize ligament strain and pressure
• Icing the heel 3–4 times a day for 20 minutes to reduce inflammation
• Shoe modifications – wear supportive shoes with proper arch support and slightly elevated heels
• Activity modification – reduce high-impact activities that worsen symptoms
• Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to relieve swelling and pain
• Heel and arch padding for cushioning and pressure relief
• Custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and support the plantar fascia
• Night splints to gently stretch the fascia overnight and reduce morning stiffness
• Walking cast or boot to allow rest and healing of the foot in more severe cases
• Injections – options include corticosteroids, **PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)**, and **homeopathic injections** for pain and inflammation relief

When Is Surgery Needed?

In rare, severe cases when conservative care does not provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options include:

• Traditional open surgery to remove a heel spur or release the fascia
• Minimal incision techniques for quicker recovery and less postoperative discomfort

Our physicians will evaluate your condition and recommend the least invasive, most effective solution for long-term relief.

Get Relief from Heel Pain

You don’t have to live with persistent heel pain. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment can get you back on your feet comfortably. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options.