Heel pain is one of the most common problems treated by Canadian Certified Pedorthists. It can develop gradually or suddenly and may affect daily activities such as walking, standing, or exercising.

Heel pain may be related to one or more of the following factors:

  • Poor foot mechanics or alignment

  • Low activity levels or sudden increases in activity

  • Improper or unsupportive footwear

  • Aging and reduced tissue flexibility

  • Unfavorable ground conditions, such as hard or uneven surfaces

 

Common Heel Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis

This condition involves inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes and supports the arch of the foot.

Poor foot posture or excessive ankle motion during walking can strain the plantar fascia, leading to small tissue tears and increased tension where it attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). This often results in pain on the bottom of the heel, especially during daily activities.

Symptoms may include:

  • Heel pain in the morning, particularly with the first steps out of bed

  • Sharp heel pain at the bottom of the heel or beginning of the arch

  • Pain in the heel when walking or after periods of sitting or rest

  • Heel pain after standing for prolonged periods

 

Retrocalcaneal Bursitis (Achilles Bursitis)

Retrocalcaneal bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone.

Symptoms may include:

  • Tenderness and heel pain at the back of the heel, near the Achilles tendon

  • Swelling that causes visible widening at the back of the heel

  • Increased pain when bending the ankle upward or standing on the toes

 

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is an injury to the Achilles tendon just above where it attaches to the heel. It may develop due to poor shock absorption, excessive foot pronation, or repetitive strain, and can contribute to ongoing heel discomfort.

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain or swelling along the Achilles tendon or where it attaches to the heel

  • Stiffness after sitting or resting

  • Thickening or nodules in the tendon

 

Calcaneal Stress Fracture

A calcaneal stress fracture is a small crack in the heel bone, often caused by trauma or a rapid increase in activity levels without proper recovery.

Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent or worsening heel pain

  • Pain in the heel when walking, often progressing to difficulty or avoidance of weight-bearing

LEARN MORE ABOUT HEEL PAIN

When To Seek Our Care

  • You have seen your physician and they recommend Pedorthic care

  • Heel pain in the morning

  • Pain on the bottom of the heel

  • Ongoing heel pain when walking or standing

It is important to assess foot mechanics, gait, and footwear to determine the cause of heel pain and guide appropriate treatment. Early assessment can help reduce pain, prevent worsening symptoms, and support long-term foot health. 

 

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