Home > Foot Conditions > Heel Pain

Print Friendly and PDF

Whats on This Page

Heel Pain (Heel Spur)

Introduction to Heel Pain

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur. Plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause a considerable amount of suffering.



Read More

Heel Pain

Understanding this condition

Long standing inflammation causes the deposition of calcium at the point where the plantar fascia inserts into the heel. This results in the appearance of a sharp thorn like heel spur on x-ray. The heel spur is asymptomatic (not painful), the pain arises from the inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Symptoms include a dull ache which is felt most of the time with episodes of a sharp pain in the centre of the heel or on the inside margin of the heel.

Often the pain is worse on first rising in the morning and after rest and is aggravated by prolonged weight bearing & thin soled shoes.

Heel Pain Causes

Causes of Heel Pain

  • The most common cause of heel pain is over pronation, this is when your foot rotates in too much as you walk. You really need to treat the underlying cause of the heel pain as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to the plantar fascia. View the Dr Foot Sport Insoles which are for sport shoes or the Dr Foot Pro Insoles for everyday shoes.
  • Excessive load on the foot from obesity is a major cause of plantar fasciitis. Which is why this condition is common in middle aged and over weight adults.
  • A sudden increase in weight, such as pregnancy can also lead to plantar fascitis. In such cases a soft comfortable heel cup works wonders, view the product here
  • A sudden increase in walking or a sporting activity can also be a contributing factor. A classic example of when this condition can develop is when a post man has returned to work after a period away from the job.
  • Tight plantar fascia (this is often caused by tight calf muscles). One of the most effective methods of stretching the fascia to speed up recovery is by using a unique product called the FXT night splint which allows you to sleep comfortably while gently stretching out the plantar fascia. View the product here
  • Excessive flattening of the arch on weight bearing i.e. flat feet. People with flat feet are more at risk of developing this condition, a simple orthotic in the shoe can prevent and treat heel pain for people with flat feet. View product here
  • Biomechanical problems (walking abnormalities) is a major cause of plantar fasciitis.
  • Different types of arthritis can also lead to this condition, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Heel Spurs Treatment

Treatments for Heel Pain

  • Orthotics- One of the most effective treatment options. View the Dr Foot Pro Insoles.
  • Silicone Heel Cups- Treats morning heel pain and provides excellent support and pain relief..
  • Reusable Hot and Cold Gel Packs- Proven therapy for plantar fasciitis by alternating application of hot and cold, coupled with massage, works wonders to relieve pain, reduce swelling and promote healing. Use ice pack in the morning and heat pack in the evening.
  • Plantar Fascia Night Splints- Immobilizes and stretches fascia and can be effective if used for several weeks.
  • Stretching exercises for plantar fascia and Achilles tendon - Can provide effective results if combined with other treatment options.(click here to view recommended exercises)
  • Stretching aids- The Pro Stretch stretches the foot in the proper position to relieve heel pain, click here to view product.
  • Ultrasound and Lasers- Found to have little or no benefit.
  • NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)- These treat the symptoms and provide temporary relief but do not treat the underlying cause.
  • Steroid/local anesthetic injection- Not one of our preferred treatment options, click here to view image.
  • Surgery- 'Open' or endoscopic plantar fascia release. No good evidence of effectiveness and complications include increased pain, nerve injury, fascial rupture and infection.

Dr Foot Recommends

Silicone
Heel Cup
Heel Pain

£ 19.99
Free Postage & Packaging

Dr Foot Pro Insoles stop heel pain
Heel Pain

£ 23.00
Free Postage & Packaging

Review: Treat those sore aching heels

Do you suffer from morning heel pain or heel spurs? If so, the Heel Pain product range is for you. Our 100% super-shock absorbing soft silicone heel products can reduce your heel pain instantly. The result? Relief. The surprise? The price. Our heel products are both effective and affordable.

View other heel pain products now

Freephone 0800 195 3440
Int: +44 800 195 3440
A Quick, Secure and Easy to Use Foot Store

Safe Shopping Guarantee
Send this pageto a friend
Email to a Friend
Share your experience with friends and family.
Foot Pain Podcasts
Podcast
We have a great archive of audio to help you.
Chat to a Foot Expert Now
Live Chat Now
Professional podiatrist will chat live right now about your problem.

Subscribe to our Free Newsletter and receive a 10% discount off your first order

Ask the Specialist

FREE advice - Ask a specialist. Ask Dr Foot a Question about Heel Pain?

Read More
Reasons to Buy Heel Pain Products

Our customers have great results with our products find out why.

Read More

Video Gallery

Customer Review

"I love the Dr Foot Sports Insoles! I am an avid runner, with over-pronation and a family history of foot and leg pain. The Dr Foot Sports Insoles make running possible for me. I've tried many other insoles and none of them work as well as Dr Foot. I'm currently training for my second marathon, and my Dr. Foot Sports Insoles are protecting me from injury. Thank you!"

Miss Smith Michigan, USA





Lets Talk About Feet

Join us for a live chat with
a Dr Foot advisory board
member every Thursday
10 a.m to 11 a.m GMT

Heel Pain Specialist View Now

Foot Pain Identifier

Click where it hurts
and view common
foot conditions

Foot Pain Identifier View Now

Message Board

View all the recent
topics now.

Heel Pain Message Board View Now