Heel Pain
Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems we treat at Abbeyhill Footcare. It can develop gradually or come on suddenly, making it difficult to stay active or even walk comfortably.
There are many possible causes of heel pain, so getting the right diagnosis is the first step towards effective treatment. Our experienced podiatrists will assess your symptoms and recommend the treatment that's best for you.
What causes heel pain?
Heel pain can be caused by several different conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Achilles tendon problems
- Fat pad syndrome
- Arthritis
- Changes in the way you walk or stand
Finding the cause of your pain helps us choose the most effective treatment for your recovery.
Common symptoms
Heel pain can feel different depending on the cause, but common symptoms include:
- Pain under the heel or at the back of the heel
- Sharp pain when taking your first steps in the morning
- Pain after standing or walking for long periods
- Pain during or after exercise
- Tenderness when you press on the heel
- Swelling around the heel
- Stiffness in the foot or ankle
- Difficulty walking comfortably
How Abbeyhill Footcare Can Help
At Abbeyhill Footcare, we'll carry out a thorough assessment to understand what's causing your heel pain.
Depending on your symptoms, your treatment may include:
- Personalised rehabilitation exercises
- Shockwave therapy for long-lasting heel pain
- Footwear advice
- Orthotics, if they're suitable for you
- Steroid injections for certain heel conditions, where appropriate
- Diagnostic ultrasound referral if further investigation is needed
Our aim is to reduce your pain, improve your movement and help you get back to doing the things you enjoy.
When should you see a podiatrist?
We recommend booking an appointment if:
- Your heel pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks
- Walking or standing is becoming painful
- Your pain keeps coming back
- Your symptoms are getting worse
- Home treatments aren't helping
Getting the right treatment early can often help speed up recovery and prevent the problem from becoming long-term.
FAQs
What is the most common cause of heel pain?
The most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which happens when the band of tissue on the bottom of your foot becomes irritated. However, heel pain can have several causes, so it's important to have it properly assessed.
Will my heel pain go away on its own?
Some mild cases improve with rest, but if your pain lasts more than a few weeks or keeps returning, it's a good idea to see a podiatrist for advice and treatment.
Do I need a scan for heel pain?
Not always. Most heel pain can be diagnosed during your appointment. If we need more information, we may recommend a diagnostic ultrasound referral.
Can orthotics help heel pain?
Yes. If the way your feet move is contributing to your symptoms, orthotics can help improve support and reduce pressure on the heel.
Is shockwave therapy good for heel pain?
Shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for long-lasting heel pain, particularly plantar fasciitis and some tendon problems. Your podiatrist will advise whether it's suitable for you.
When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
If your pain is making it difficult to walk, has lasted more than two weeks, or isn't improving with rest, it's worth booking an assessment. Early treatment can often lead to a quicker recovery.