Heel Pain (Plantar Fascitis)

Pain underneath your heel, especially when you first step out of bed in the morning.

Heel pain is a common problem and is most often the result of a condition called plantar fasciitis. This is where your plantar fascia which is a band of fibrous tissue which supports the arch becomes inflamed at its attachment to the heel bone.

Heel pain is often worst in the morning when you take your first steps for the day, or after sitting for long periods. Pain is present on the bottom of the heel, however this pain may extend under the arch of the foot. The pain is often described as feeling “like a stone bruise” although there is usually no history of injury and the onset is gradual. An increase in activity, especially regular walking or running, can trigger heel pain particularly if the footwear is not supportive.

Your podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis of your heel pain and provide treatments which may include Formthotics™, footwear advice, stretches, ice/heat to name a few. Formthotics™ encourage optimal foot function, this means that the structures that run underneath your foot will be supported, offloaded and relieved. Heel pain responds well to treatment especially when dealt with early so a full recovery is likely.