Heel pain affects many people and can impact even simple daily activities—walking around the house, standing at work, or playing your favorite sport. The good news? Most heel pain is treatable once you understand the cause. At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, we help patients identify the root of their heel pain and create personalized treatment plans so they can return to a pain-free life.

The Most Common Cause: Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot, the plantar fascia, becomes irritated or inflamed.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp stabbing pain in the heel, especially first thing in the morning or after sitting

  • Pain after activity or prolonged standing

Who’s at risk:

  • Runners or active individuals

  • People who spend long hours on their feet

  • Those with flat feet or high arches

Treatment options:

  • Ice the area 10–15 minutes, several times per day

  • Stretch calves and the bottom of your feet

  • Wear supportive shoes and custom orthotics

  • Avoid walking barefoot

  • MLS laser therapy or cortisone injections for inflammation

  • Individualized treatment plans based on your needs

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths on the bottom of the heel. They don’t always cause pain but are often linked with plantar fasciitis and can increase discomfort.

Who’s at risk:

  • People who are overweight

  • Those who stand for long periods

  • Individuals placing chronic stress on their feet

Treatment options:

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis affects the back of the heel when the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed.

Symptoms:

  • Pain that worsens with activity, especially running, jumping, or quick start-stop movements

Treatment options:

  • Rest and activity modification

  • Calf-strengthening exercises

  • MLS laser therapy to speed healing

  • Heel lifts or orthotics to reduce tendon strain

Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when a small fluid-filled sac (bursa) at the back of the heel becomes inflamed.

Symptoms:

  • Swelling

  • Tenderness at the back of the heel

Causes:

  • Repeated stress or friction from shoes

  • Running or high-impact activity

Treatment options:

Nerve-Related Heel Pain: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome happens when a nerve in the foot becomes pinched or irritated.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp, burning, or shooting pain

Who’s at risk:

  • Flat feet or high arches

  • Previous ankle injuries

  • Certain health conditions

Treatment options:

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the heel bone caused by repeated pressure.

Symptoms:

  • Pain when walking or running

  • Often worse with increased activity

Who’s at risk:

Treatment options:

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and often appear on the heel.

Symptoms:

  • Pain when pressure is applied while walking

  • Tiny black dots or clusters on the foot

Who’s at risk:

  • Children

  • People who walk barefoot in communal areas

  • Individuals with weaker immune systems

Treatment options:

Prevention Tips for Heel Pain

While some heel pain can be managed with simple interventions, persistent pain should always be evaluated by a podiatrist. Preventive measures include:

  • Wear supportive shoes

  • Gradually increase activity

  • Stretch daily

  • Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces

  • Maintain a healthy weight

Take Action: Don’t Wait

Persistent heel pain shouldn’t be ignored—the longer you wait, the longer it takes to heal. At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, we provide:

  • Thorough assessments

  • Personalized treatment plans using orthotics, MLS laser therapy, and advanced techniques

  • Guidance on insurance coverage that may help with most or all services

Schedule an assessment today and take the first step toward walking comfortably again.

 

Tony Abbott
Tony Abbott
Chiropodist in Collingwood With 30+ Years of Experience
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