Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints and can affect people of all ages. The discomfort is usually felt beneath the heel or around the back of the heel and may develop gradually or after increased activity.
Because several different structures around the heel can become irritated, identifying the underlying cause is important when recommending treatment
Common Symptoms
Heel pain can develop for several different reasons. Common causes include:
– Pain under the heel when walking or standing
– Pain when taking the first steps in the morning
– Discomfort after periods of rest
– Tenderness when pressing on the heel
– Pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking
Symptoms may vary depending on which structures of the foot are affected.
Possible Causes
Foot pain can occur for several different reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
Plantar fasciitis
Fat pad atrophy
Achilles tendinopathy
Heel spur
Foot mechanics that increase strain on the heel
Because several conditions can produce similar symptoms, assessment is important to
determine the exact cause.
Assessment and Diagnosis
At Absolute Footcare, heel pain is assessed through a detailed gait and biomechanical assessment. This allows us to evaluate how your feet function during walking and identify mechanical factors that may be contributing to increased strain on the heel. We also use a Footscan pressure plate system to analyse how pressure is distributed across the foot during walking.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified during your assessment.
Possible treatments may include:
Biomechanical and Gait analysis
Rehabilitation exercises
Shockwave therapy
Custom Orthotics
Footwear Advice
Steroid Injection
Book a Gait and Biomechanical Assessment
If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, the best first step is to book a gait and biomechanical assessment.