Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
Plantar fasciitis is the commonest cause of heel pain in adults. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue under the foot that supports the arch, and repeated strain makes it painful where it attaches to the heel. It is more common between forty and sixty, with weight gain, long hours standing, flat or very high arches, and walking barefoot or in flat slippers on hard floors. Many people try hot water soaks, ointments or a heel spur operation they have heard about. Most cases get better with stretching, supportive footwear and physiotherapy, although recovery can take several months. A heel spur seen on an X-ray is common in people without pain and is rarely the cause.
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Symptoms
- Sharp pain under the heel with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting or resting that eases as you walk, then returns later
- Pain after long periods of standing
- Tenderness when pressing the inner part of the heel
- Pain in one heel more often than both
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor or physiotherapist if heel pain has not improved after two to three weeks of stretching and better footwear, or stops you working or walking. See a doctor promptly for heel pain with numbness or tingling in the foot, swelling, a heel that is hot and red, pain after a fall or jump, or pain in both heels with joint pain elsewhere. People with diabetes should have any foot pain or sore checked early.
Treatment options
- Calf and plantar fascia stretches, done several times a day
- Supportive shoes with a cushioned heel, and avoiding barefoot walking on hard floors
- Heel cups or insoles
- Physiotherapy: stretching, strengthening, taping and advice on load
- Weight management
- Steroid injection or shockwave therapy for pain that persists despite months of treatment
What it costs on Mezo
Published cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
How long does plantar fasciitis last?
Most people improve within a few months with stretching and good footwear, although it can take up to a year. Starting the right exercises early shortens it.
Do I need surgery for a heel spur?
Rarely. Heel spurs are common on X-rays of people with no pain, and the pain usually comes from the plantar fascia rather than the spur. Surgery is only considered after a long period of treatment has not worked.
Are slippers bad for heel pain?
Flat slippers and walking barefoot on tiled floors put more strain on the heel. Shoes or sandals with a cushioned heel and arch support, worn indoors as well, usually help.
Need Help?
Paid online. Assessment and a home exercise programme on the first visit.
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