What is Heel Pain?

Heel pain refers to any pain in or around the heel. This is generally quite inflammatory in nature and can affect one or both feet. Typically, in most heel pain cases, the plantar fascia gets aggravated or inflamed and can cause a throbbing, stabbing or burning pain underneath the heel. It is very common for people with long term heel pain (greater than three weeks) to start developing, or have, a heel spur. It is vital to note that the heel spur itself has no nerve endings and doesn’t hurt; it is simply a sign that overuse of this area has been present for some time.

Plantar Fasciitis - It all comes down to the ligament that runs from your heel bone and along the sole of your foot to support your arch.

Heel Spur - Achilles pain refers to any pain in and around the Achilles tendon and where it inserts into the back of your heel, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus).

Achilles Tendonitis - Achilles tendonitis is the aggravation and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. With repeated stress or trauma, this can progress to degeneration and even tearing of the Achilles tendon

Sever’s disease - Sever’s Disease refers to inflammation of the growth plate of the heel bone (calcaneus). Classically, it is quite painful and usually affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 years

Morton’s Neuroma - Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot, most commonly the area between your third and fourth toes

Most people describe the pain as being ‘like a hot knife sticking into the bottom of your heel’. Others describe it as a sharp, hot, searing pain in the middle, inside or outside of the heel or arch of the foot.

Please note: If symptoms persist we recommend visiting your health professional for appropriate assessment and treatment.