Heel Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Pain Under Your Heel Or At The Back Of Your Heel?

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons people seek podiatry advice.

It can affect people of all ages and activity levels, from runners and golfers to busy parents, walkers and active retirees.

For some people, heel pain develops gradually over time. For others, it may appear suddenly and significantly affect walking, exercise and everyday activities.

Many people become frustrated because the pain isn't settling, despite trying stretches, insoles or simply hoping it will improve on its own. Others find themselves walking less, avoiding exercise or worrying that they may have to give up the activities they enjoy.

At Callen Olive, we regularly assess and treat heel pain, helping people understand the cause of their symptoms and return to comfortable movement as quickly and safely as possible.

You're Not Alone

Heel pain affects thousands of people every year and can have a surprisingly significant impact on everyday life.

We regularly see people who have been struggling with symptoms for weeks, months and sometimes even years.

Some have stopped exercising altogether, whilst others are finding everyday activities such as walking the dog, shopping or standing at work increasingly difficult.

You are not alone.

Our experienced clinicians regularly assess and treat heel pain and understand how significantly it can affect comfort, mobility and quality of life.

What Does Heel Pain Feel Like?

Heel pain can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause.

People commonly describe:

• Sharp pain under the heel

• Pain when taking the first few steps in the morning

• Pain after sitting for long periods

• Walking as though they are standing on a stone or bruise

• Pain when walking barefoot

• Aching during activity

• Tenderness at the back of the heel

• Pain that improves as they move around

• Pain that worsens after activity

The location and pattern of symptoms often provide valuable clues regarding the underlying diagnosis.

How Can Heel Pain Affect Everyday Life?

Heel pain affects every step you take.

Many people find themselves:

• Avoiding long walks

• Reducing exercise and sporting activities

• Struggling to stand comfortably at work

• Finding shopping trips and days out more difficult

• Avoiding holidays and activities they once enjoyed

• Becoming less active and less mobile

For some people, the impact on comfort, wellbeing and quality of life can be significant.

Is All Heel Pain Plantar Fasciitis?

No.

Although Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, several conditions can produce very similar symptoms.

Pain beneath the heel, pain at the back of the heel and pain that develops during activity can all have different causes and may require different treatment approaches.

Accurate diagnosis is often the key to achieving successful outcomes.

Common Causes Of Heel Pain

Plantar Fasciitis

One of the most common causes of heel pain in adults.

Plantar Fasciitis involves irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot.

Symptoms often include:

• Pain under the heel

• Morning pain

• Pain after periods of rest

• Pain during walking

Heel Spurs

Many people believe heel spurs are the cause of their pain.

In reality, heel spurs are often present without symptoms and are frequently found in people who have no heel pain at all.

Treatment should focus on the underlying cause rather than the presence of a heel spur on an X-ray.

Fat Pad Syndrome

The natural cushioning beneath the heel can become thinner or less effective over time.

This may result in:

• A deep bruised sensation

• Pain when standing

• Discomfort on hard surfaces

• Reduced shock absorption

Achilles Tendinopathy

Pain at the back of the heel may be related to irritation of the Achilles tendon.

Symptoms often occur during:

• Walking

• Running

• Climbing stairs

• Sporting activities

Children's Heel Pain (Sever's Disease)

Heel pain is common in active children and adolescents.

Sever's Disease is one of the most frequent causes and often occurs during periods of rapid growth.

Why Does Heel Pain Develop?

Several factors may contribute to heel pain.

These include:

• Foot biomechanics

• Activity levels

• Training changes

• Footwear

• Weight-bearing demands

• Muscle tightness

• Previous injury

Often, multiple factors are involved rather than a single cause.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Many people assume heel pain will simply resolve on its own.

Unfortunately, symptoms can persist for months or even years if the underlying cause is not identified and addressed.

Pushing through pain can sometimes lead to:

• Reduced activity levels

• Changes in walking patterns

• Increased stiffness

• Loss of fitness

• Compensation injuries elsewhere in the foot, ankle or lower limb

• Long-term frustration

Early assessment can often help identify the cause of symptoms and support a quicker return to comfortable movement.

At Callen Olive, we focus on understanding why symptoms have developed rather than simply treating the pain itself.

How We Assess Heel Pain

Assessment begins by understanding your symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life.

This may include:

• Clinical examination

• Foot posture assessment

• Biomechanical assessment

• OptoGait gait analysis

• Footwear review

• Activity assessment

Where appropriate, diagnostic imaging may also be recommended.

By understanding the underlying cause of your symptoms, we can create a personalised treatment plan designed around your individual needs and goals.

Your Personalised Treatment Plan

Treatment recommendations depend on the underlying diagnosis and contributing factors.

Management may include:

Footwear Advice

Appropriate footwear can often significantly improve comfort and reduce unnecessary stress on painful tissues.

Custom Foot Orthotics

Custom Foot Orthotics may help improve foot function, redistribute pressure and reduce excessive loading through painful structures.

Rehabilitation Exercises

Targeted rehabilitation programmes may help improve strength, flexibility and movement efficiency.

Activity Modification

Temporary changes to activity can often support recovery whilst helping maintain fitness and everyday function.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy can be an effective treatment option for certain causes of heel pain, particularly Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy.

Injection Therapy

For carefully selected conditions, injection therapy may also be considered where clinically appropriate.

Our goal is not simply to reduce pain but to help you move comfortably and confidently again.

Why Choose Callen Olive?

We Care.

We understand how frustrating heel pain can be.

Many people come to us after weeks, months or even years of ongoing discomfort. Some have stopped exercising, whilst others are struggling with everyday activities and simply want to walk comfortably again.

Our experienced clinicians combine expert assessment, biomechanics and personalised treatment planning to identify the true cause of your symptoms and create treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Because caring for your feet isn't simply about reducing pain. It's about helping you move with comfort, confidence and ease.

Healthy Feet. Healthy Body. Healthy Mind.

Treatment Fees

No two patients are the same.

That's why every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs, lifestyle and goals. Following your assessment, your clinician will explain the treatment options available and help you choose the most appropriate pathway to achieve the best possible outcome.

Our focus is always on helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your comfort, mobility and long-term wellbeing.

New Patient Biomechanics Assessment: £180
New Patient Biomechanics Assessment with Principal Podiatrist: £225

Our team will support you throughout every stage of your recovery to ensure you feel informed, reassured and cared for.

If you are unsure which appointment is most suitable, our Patient Care Team will be happy to help.

Call us on +44 333 305 8347.

Related Conditions

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Achilles Tendinopathy

• Fat Pad Syndrome

• Sever's Disease

• Flat Feet

Related Treatments

• Biomechanical Assessment

• OptoGait Gait Analysis

• Custom Foot Orthotics

• Shockwave Therapy

• Injection Therapy

Learn More

• Walking For Wellbeing

• Running & Foot Health

• Foot Health For Golfers

• Active Ageing & Foot Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Is All Heel Pain Plantar Fasciitis?

No. Heel pain can have several causes, including Plantar Fasciitis, Fat Pad Syndrome, Achilles Tendinopathy and children's heel pain.

Why Is My Heel Pain Worse In The Morning?

Morning pain is commonly associated with Plantar Fasciitis, although other conditions can also cause stiffness and discomfort after periods of rest.

Should I Keep Walking With Heel Pain?

This depends on the underlying diagnosis and severity of symptoms. Your clinician will discuss the most appropriate approach for your individual circumstances.

Will Heel Pain Go Away On Its Own?

Some cases improve with time, but symptoms can persist for months or even years if the underlying cause is not identified and addressed.

Do I Need A Scan?

Not always. Many causes of heel pain can be diagnosed clinically. Where appropriate, diagnostic imaging may be recommended.

Can Orthotics Help Heel Pain?

For some people, Custom Foot Orthotics can help improve foot function and reduce stress on painful structures.

Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?

Most people tolerate treatment well. Your clinician will explain the procedure and discuss whether it may be appropriate for your condition.

Ready To Move Comfortably Again?

You don't have to put up with heel pain.

Whether your symptoms have recently developed or have been affecting you for some time, our experienced team is here to help.

Book your assessment today and take the first step towards moving with comfort, confidence and ease.