Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The thick band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot becomes irritated where it attaches to the heel bone. The classic sign is a sharp pain under the heel with your first steps in the morning, or when you stand up after sitting.
Why it happens
It often follows a change in activity, a lot of time on hard floors, walking barefoot or in flat flip-flops, tight calf muscles, or weight gain. It’s common in runners and in people who are on their feet all day.
Treatment
Most people get better without surgery, but it can take a while, so it’s worth starting the right treatment early.
- Calf and foot stretches, done every day
- Supportive footwear and insoles, and avoiding going barefoot
- Shockwave therapy or a guided injection for pain that won’t settle
- Surgery, for the small number of people who still have pain after all of the above
Heel pain isn’t always plantar fasciitis. It can come from the Achilles tendon, a trapped nerve or a stress fracture, so if it isn’t improving, get it properly assessed.
If it isn’t getting better
Heel pain that has gone on for more than a few months deserves a proper look. I’ll examine your foot and, if needed, arrange an ultrasound scan at NovoClinic to check the plantar fascia and rule out other causes. Between my visits we can start with a video consultation, so you’re not left waiting to get the right treatment going.
