Heel Pain And What To Do About It

Pain in the heel can occurs anywhere in the heel but is most common in either the bottom of the heel or at the back of the heel. It is usually related to inflammation at the insertion of the Achilles tendon or the insertion of the plantar fascia (the tight band that runs along the bottom of the foot). Heel pain can also be associated with callus build up.

Pain at the Achilles tendon insertion can be as a result of tight muscles in the back of the leg, poor biomechanics, inappropriate footwear or an increase in training intensity/frequency . It is important to get pain in the back of the heel assessed as if left untreated the Achilles tendon can become weaker and be at risk of rupture. See the section on Achilles Pain Treatment under Sports Injuries for more information.

Pain in the bottom of the heel may be related to plantar fasciitis (the inflammation of the muscle that runs along the bottom of your foot), poor biomechanics or inappropriate footwear. See the section on Heel Pain Treatment under Foot Problems for more information.

When the hard skin builds up on the heels, it puts pressure on the healthy skin underneath. In people with compromised foot sensation e.g. people with diabetes, nerve problems, this may lead to ulceration. See the section on Corn and Callus Treatment under Foot Problems for more information.

Treatment may include hard skin removal, strapping, orthotics, stretching and strengthening education, dry needling and manipulation techniques.

If you have any questions on how to treat your heel pain, please call Chesterfield Podiatry in Mirrabooka to speak with one of our Podiatrists. We look after all those living or working in Mirrabooka, Westminster, Nollamara and Noranda.