What causes heel pain?

Pain under the heel that is strongest with the first steps after rest often involves the plantar fascia, a strong band supporting the arch. A heel spur may appear near this area, although the spur itself does not always explain the pain.

Pain that increases with repeated impact or continues at rest can require assessment for a stress fracture. Burning, tingling, or altered sensation may point to tarsal tunnel syndrome, where a nerve is compressed near the inner ankle. In growing children and adolescents, pain at the back of the heel may be related to Sever's disease.

Reduce running and jumping for a while, choose supportive shoes, and use gentle calf and foot exercises if they remain comfortable. Avoid suddenly increasing training load or walking long distances in unsupportive footwear.

A clinician can examine the heel, ankle, calf, and walking pattern. Custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, or PRP injection may be discussed for selected persistent problems after the cause has been clarified; these options are not suitable for every type of heel pain.

Arrange assessment if pain lasts, limits normal walking, recurs with activity, or is accompanied by tingling. Seek urgent care after a significant injury if you cannot bear weight, the heel looks deformed, swelling is severe, or the foot becomes cold or discoloured.

Ask which structure is tender, whether a bone injury needs to be ruled out, what activity is safe, and which shoe or rehabilitation changes fit the suspected cause.