01What is heel pain?
Heel pain is a common foot complaint with several possible causes. Pain under the heel is most often related to plantar fasciitis (plantar heel pain). Pain at the back of the heel may relate to the Achilles tendon or its insertion.
Less common causes include stress fractures, nerve irritation and fat-pad problems. A careful assessment helps distinguish between them.
02Common symptoms
- Pain under the heel with the first steps in the morning
- Pain at the back of the heel, worse with walking uphill or stairs
- Pain after standing for long periods
- Tenderness when pressing the heel
- Pain that eases with gentle walking but returns later
03Possible causes and risk factors
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Long periods standing on hard surfaces
- Sudden increases in walking or running
- Unsupportive footwear and higher body weight
04How a physiotherapy assessment helps
Your assessment with Dr. Pankaj B. LokhandeBPTh, MPTh (Ortho & Sports), PhD Scholar (MUHS)
We locate the painful area precisely, assess calf and foot strength, ankle mobility and walking, and review your footwear and daily activity.
05Rehabilitation approaches we may use
Calf and foot strengthening
Progressive loading for the calf, Achilles and foot muscles.
Stretching
Calf and plantar fascia stretches where stiffness is present.
Footwear advice
Choosing cushioned, supportive shoes.
Activity adjustment
Temporarily reducing prolonged standing or high-impact activity.
Taping
Short-term offloading in selected cases.
Orthotic discussion
Considering insoles when appropriate.
Your plan is chosen after assessment. Not every approach listed here is suitable for every person.
06Who may benefit
- People with plantar heel pain
- Walkers and runners with Achilles pain
- Workers who stand for long hours
07Safety precautions
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors during flare-ups.
- If you have diabetes or reduced foot sensation, please tell us.
- Do not ignore a sudden change in heel pain after injury.
08When to see a doctor first
- Heel pain after a fall or jump with inability to bear weight
- A sudden pop at the back of the heel (possible Achilles rupture)
- Heel pain with fever, redness and swelling
- Numbness or burning in the foot
09Frequently asked questions
Why is my heel pain worse in the morning?
This is typical of plantar heel pain. Tissues stiffen overnight and are loaded suddenly with the first steps.
Is a heel spur causing my pain?
Heel spurs are common on X-rays, including in people without pain. They are not always the cause of symptoms.
Should I wear slippers at home?
Supportive footwear indoors can help while symptoms settle.
How long will heel pain take to improve?
Recovery varies and can take time. Consistency with exercise and load changes is key.
FURTHER READING
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for an individual assessment. Recovery varies from person to person. See our medical disclaimer.
