Can a Podiatrist Help With Arch Pain?

Yes, a podiatrist can help you manage arch pain effectively by evaluating your condition, prescribing personalised treatments like custom orthotics, targeted exercises, and footwear modifications, and ensuring your comfort, mobility, and prevention of future issues.

How Do I Get My Arch to Stop Hurting?

Treat your arch like a valued teammate—choose supportive footwear, stretch your plantar fascia and calf muscles daily, apply ice to reduce inflammation, use custom orthotics, and consult a podiatrist for personalised care and guidance.

What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Foot Arch Pain?

You might experience foot arch pain due to vitamin D, B12, C, or magnesium deficiencies. Ensure you get enough of these nutrients through diet or supplements to strengthen foot structures and improve overall comfort.

What Is the Best Medicine for Foot Arch Pain?

Imagine soothing relief washing over your aching foot arch as you apply topical analgesics like lidocaine creams or take NSAIDs such as ibuprofen; they're effective options to manage inflammation and help you regain comfortable mobility.

What Foot Conditions Need to Be Referred to the Podiatrist?

Don't dismiss it as usual if you experience persistent foot pain or functional limitations. Conditions like tendonitis, arthritis, or structural abnormalities warrant a referral to a podiatrist for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies.

How Do You Treat Outside Foot Pain on the Side of Your Foot?

To treat outside foot pain, start with RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also help. Consider physical therapy and custom orthotics to strengthen support and effectively address underlying biomechanical issues.

What Does a Podiatrist Do for Foot Pain?

When foot pain strikes, a podiatrist uses expert assessments, imaging, and tailored treatment plans to restore mobility. They'll help you find relief, ensuring your steps feel lighter and your activities regain their joy.

What Does It Mean if the Outside Edge of Your Foot Hurts?

If the outside edge of your foot hurts, it often indicates underlying issues like tendonitis or stress fractures. Consulting a healthcare professional can help you identify the cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

Can Shockwave Therapy Help With Heel Pain?

Imagine encountering a mountain; shockwave therapy is your climbing gear, helping you scale it. It effectively alleviates heel pain by enhancing blood flow and tissue healing, leading to significant relief in just a few sessions.

Does Shock Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis?

Yes, shock therapy effectively works for plantar fasciitis. It stimulates healing, increases blood circulation, and reduces pain sensitivity, often leading to significant symptom relief after just a few sessions, making it a valuable treatment option.

How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take to Work on Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy typically requires 3 to 6 weekly sessions, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief within hours or days of the first treatment. Healing can continue for weeks post-treatment, ensuring cumulative benefits.

How Do You Get Rid of Heel Pain From Plantar Fasciitis?

Ignoring the pain would help. Instead, consider addressing heel pain through targeted exercises, proper footwear, and anti-inflammatory methods. Seek professional advice for personalized treatment to promote healing and help you regain mobility effectively.

What Underlying Conditions Can Cause Heel Pain?

Imagine your heel as a puzzle piece; various conditions, such as heel bursitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and Achilles issues, can disrupt the fit. Identifying these underlying causes is essential to aid in effective treatment and recovery.

What causes severe pain in the back of the heel?

Severe pain in the back of your heel might arise from conditions like Achilles tendinopathy, heel bursitis, or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Each condition has unique symptoms, requiring careful assessment and tailored treatment strategies for effective relief.

Why Won't My Heel Pain Go Away?

Your heel pain might not disappear due to underlying conditions like tarsal tunnel syndrome or Achilles tendon issues. It's crucial to seek a professional evaluation to identify the cause and receive effective treatment tailored to your needs.

March 2025

Blog 136 – Sore Foot Arch? Learn About Causes & Podiatry Treatments That Work | Healthcare

Nicole Hardidge Uncategorized March 26, 2025March 30, 2025

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your foot arch, it may point to underlying issues like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overuse injuries. Symptoms often include sharp sensations, swelling, or a burning pain during activity or rest.

While home remedies can bring temporary relief, persistent discomfort requires a targeted approach to prevent worsening. Understanding your arch pain’s cause is key to effective treatment—learn which podiatry solutions truly offer lasting improvement in our latest blog below.

Key Takeaways

Sore foot arches often result from plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, tendon dysfunction, or chronic overuse.
At-home treatments like rest, icing, arch-supportive footwear, targeted stretching, and massage can alleviate mild arch pain effectively.
Persistent arch discomfort may require customised orthotics to improve alignment and redistribute pressure in your feet.
Podiatrists offer specialised treatments, such as shockwave therapy, physical therapy, and foot manipulation, which provide lasting relief.
Early diagnosis and podiatric intervention improve recovery outcomes and help prevent complications from untreated foot arch pain.

Common Causes of Sore Foot Arches

Because sore foot arches often stem from varied underlying issues, identifying the specific cause is essential for effective treatment:

Foot arch pain often results from plantar fasciitis, causing sharp, particularly noticeable discomfort after rest periods.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, another frequent cause, involves damage to a supportive tendon leading to arch collapse and pain in your arch and inner ankle.
Structural conditions such as flat feet (overpronation) and high arches (supination) create uneven pressure distribution, placing excessive strain on arch structures during walking or running activities.
Chronic overuse related to high-impact exercises or prolonged standing can also provoke inflammation and discomfort.

Seeking evaluation by a podiatrist guarantees early detection of your underlying causes, which is vital for the effective management of arch foot pain.

Identifying Symptoms of Foot Arch Pain

Have you noticed sharp or throbbing discomfort affecting your foot’s arch, especially during prolonged walking or standing?

Common symptoms include tenderness when touching sore arches, mild swelling after activity, or a burning discomfort in the arches of the foot. Plantar fasciitis typically presents as pronounced morning pain in the arch, improving as you move but returning after inactivity.

Rest can temporarily ease symptoms, but persistent cases require evaluation from an experienced foot pain podiatrist.

Symptom	Common Cause	When Symptoms Occur
Sharp pain	Plantar Fasciitis	First steps in the morning
Throbbing sensation	Overuse	Prolonged standing / walking
Tenderness	For arch muscle pain	When pressing the arch
Mild swelling	Structural abnormalities	Following physical exertion
Burning sensation	Inflammation	Post-activity or prolonged inactivity

Effective At-Home Remedies for Arch Pain Relief

Managing foot arch pain effectively begins with implementing simple yet powerful at-home interventions that target inflammation and tissue tension:

Rest & Cold Therapy

Rest and targeted cold therapy form the foundation for effective home arch pain management. Rest your affected foot and apply ice for 10-15 minutes twice daily to reduce inflammation and provide immediate relief.

Plnatar Fasciitis Physical Therapy

Perform targeted plantar fasciitis stretches by bending your front knee while keeping your back heel down to alleviate arch tension. Complement this routine with self-massage using a lacrosse ball or water bottle for 5-10 minutes to release plantar fascia tightness.

Here is an easy to follow video tutorial from the UK Health Authority on how to perform this very beneficial exercise:

Supportive Footwear

Invest in supportive footwear with adequate arch support and avoid walking barefoot, exacerbating pain.

Consider over-the-counter or custom orthotics to redistribute pressure across your arch and provide structural support.

These interventions can collectively address some of the mechanical stressors contributing to arch pain while promoting tissue healing. If pain persists though, it is highly recommended you seek the guidance of a trained health professional.

Customised Orthotics: When and Why They're Necessary

While at-home remedies provide initial relief for many patients, customised orthotics represent a more specialised intervention for persistent arch foot pain. These devices are specifically engineered to address your unique foot posture and mechanics, guaranteeing ideal pressure redistribution across the foot.

Your podiatrist will determine if orthotics are necessary through:

Evidence demonstrates significant functional outcomes for patients using custom orthotics, particularly those experiencing pain during prolonged standing or high-impact activities.

Regular follow-up appointments ensure your orthotics continue providing effective pain relief as your foot health improves.

Targeted Exercises: Stretching To Strengthen Foot Muscles

Foot arch discomfort can impact daily mobility, but targeted exercises and stretches can enhance foot muscles and improve stability.

Routine strengthening and stretching can notably relieve arch pain, enhance foot health, and prevent recurrence. Incorporate the following targeted exercises into your daily regimen.

Regular strengthening and stretching exercises ease arch pain, improve overall foot wellness, and help prevent future discomfort:

Toe Curls: Activate intrinsic foot muscles by grasping and releasing a towel with your toes.

Here is a useful video from the Baptist Health on how to perform:

Calf Raises: Strengthen lower leg muscles and support arch stability by gently rising onto your toes.

Here is another great video from the UK Health Authority on how to perform this useful exercise:

Plantar Fascia Towel Stretch: Alleviate tension by pulling toes toward you with a towel, promoting flexibility.

Back to the UK Health Authority (NHS) with a clear video you can follow on how to perform this exercise:

Single-Leg Balance Exercises: Boost proprioception and intrinsic muscle strength, fundamental for stable arches.

Back again to Baptist Health with another video on how to perform this exercise:

Regularly performing these exercises provides lasting improvements, enhancing your capacity to serve others effectively.

Professional Podiatry Treatments for Lasting Relief

If you’re struggling with persistent arch discomfort, seeking professional podiatry treatments can offer lasting relief and prevent condition progression:

Custom orthotics are often a key podiatry care intervention, explicitly designed for your foot mechanics to redistribute pressure and correct alignment issues contributing to arch pain.
Your podiatrist may recommend shockwave therapy, an effective non-invasive option utilising high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in chronic pain conditions, such as plantar fasciitis.
Physical therapy complements these approaches through targeted stretching exercises and strengthening activities, improving overall foot function and stability.
Additionally, podiatrists can apply manipulation techniques or supportive strapping methods to provide immediate stabilisation, enhance mobility, and reduce discomfort during daily activities.

As always, early intervention ensures the best recovery and prevents ongoing pain.

When To Seek Podiatrist Help For Your Arch Pain

Are you experiencing persistent arch pain despite rest, ice, and standard over-the-counter solutions?

Early intervention addresses arch pain and prevents long-term complications, like plantar fasciitis or reduced foot stability. Consult a podiatrist promptly if you notice any of the following warning signs:

Seeking a podiatrist’s diagnosis promptly ensures a precise, personalised treatment plan that restores comfort and efficient foot function.

Summing It All Up...

While sore foot arches may seem like a trivial issue initially, addressing them sooner rather than later can prevent a cascade of discomfort in your daily life.

Remember to prioritise your foot health by seeking advice from a podiatrist, investing in supportive footwear, and incorporating regular stretching into your routine. Don’t let foot fatigue compromise your activities; take the first step towards relief today.

If you’re experiencing discomfort in your arches, visit Bellevue Podiatry for expert care and personalised treatment options tailored just for you.

If you want the right professional advice on how to treat your foot pain, we currently have a limited offer running to help you out. For just $79 (usually valued at $189), book in online for our Complete Foot Pain Assessment & Treatment Consultation will get:

Check out our heel pain eBook below for further details on this special offer as well as other tips and techniques you can try at home to manage your plantar fasciitis and foot pain.

You don’t need to put up with arch pain any longer. Our team of experienced Podiatrists have the education and experience to get you moving pain free again. Take control today by booking in online or call us today on (03) 8104 9270 to get this issue sorted once and for all.

Foot Pain

Understand what causes your foot pain and what you can do to get rid of it once and for all. Find out what treatments can get you back to walking pain free so you can enjoy living an active life again!

Bellevue Podiatry

Bellevue Podiatry has been serving the people of Rosanna and its surrounding suburbs for over 10 years. We have the qualifications, experience and education to effectively treat any lower limb condition or injury that requires expert podiatry care.

Nicole Hardidge - Heel Pain Principal Podiatrist

Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Podiatry from Latrobe University in 2009 with a certificate in Advanced Clinical Education. Nicole has completed her post graduate certificate in wound care through Monash University.

If you would like a deeper understanding of the content discussed in this article, please click on the links below:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-in-arch-of-foot (Healthline)
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325953 (Medical News Today)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/syc-203548 (Mayo Clinic)
https://www.health.harvard.edu/digital_first_content/foot-pain-a-look-at-why-your-feet-might-hurt (Harvard Health Publishing)

Blog 135 – Pain on Outside of Foot? Symptoms, Causes & Lasting Podiatry Treatments

Nicole Hardidge Uncategorized March 11, 2025March 30, 2025

Understanding the cause of outside foot pain is crucial. Conditions like peroneal tendonitis or cuboid syndrome can lead to sharp discomfort and swelling. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment.

The following blog will explore common symptoms, diagnostic methods, and what podiatry treatments can provide lasting relief. Understanding these aspects can help you manage your discomfort and prevent future issues.

Key Takeaways

Lateral foot pain often stems from conditions like peroneal tendonitis or stress fractures of the 5th metatarsal, causing sharp discomfort and swelling.
Symptoms include tenderness, inflammation, and pain during movement, which may lead to difficulty walking or standing.
A thorough physical examination and imaging are essential for accurate diagnosis and identifying underlying causes.
Treatment options include personalised rehabilitation, custom orthotics, and therapies such as ultrasound or corticosteroid injections for inflammation.
Educating patients about appropriate footwear and preventive measures can help alleviate symptoms and prevent future episodes.

Understanding Lateral Foot Pain

When you experience pain on the outside of your foot, it’s essential to understand that this discomfort can often indicate underlying issues requiring prompt attention:

Early diagnosis through a physical examination and imaging is critical, as conditions with similar symptoms might need different treatments. Effective management may involve rest, inflammation-reducing medications, and customised exercise regimens.

Common Conditions Causing Outside Foot Pain

Pain on the outside of your foot often results from several common conditions that affect its structure and function.

Recognising these issues is essential for effective treatment. Here are some conditions to evaluate:

Addressing these conditions with appropriate strategies, including custom orthotics, can significantly alleviate pain on the outside of your foot.

Symptoms Associated With Lateral Foot Pain

Experiencing lateral foot pain often presents with sharp discomfort on the outer side, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities.

You may notice swelling and inflammation localised to the affected area, often accompanied by tenderness when pressure is applied to the outer side of your foot.

Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods can arise due to discomfort and instability, impacting mobility. In more severe cases, bruising or discolouration may indicate injury or trauma to the lateral structures of the foot.

Symptoms tend to intensify with activities like running, jumping, or twisting, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. Seeking appropriate podiatry treatments can alleviate these issues and enhance your overall foot health.

Diagnostic Approaches for Outside Foot Pain

Identifying the cause of outside foot pain requires a systematic diagnostic approach that combines physical examination and medical history.

During this process, your podiatrist will assess:

Imaging techniques, like X-rays or MRIs, might be used to rule out stress fractures or soft tissue injuries. A solid differential diagnosis is essential, considering overlapping symptoms among various conditions.

Partnering with podiatrists can enhance diagnostic accuracy, help you understand your pain, and create effective treatment strategies tailored to your needs.

Podiatry Treatment Options for Lasting Relief

When addressing outer foot pain, podiatry treatment options are designed to provide lasting relief tailored to your needs.

Your podiatrist may develop personalised rehabilitation plans to target conditions like tendonitis or stress fractures, focusing on rest and strengthening exercises.

Custom orthotics can enhance arch support and correct biomechanical issues contributing to your discomfort.

Personalised rehabilitation plans and custom orthotics can effectively target tendonitis and stress fractures for optimal foot health.

Additional techniques, such as ultrasound therapy or corticosteroid injections, can help manage inflammation and promote healing. A thorough gait analysis lets your podiatrist identify problematic walking patterns, ensuring a precise treatment strategy.

Furthermore, gaining knowledge about appropriate footwear and preventive measures is essential to avoid recurrence, especially for those engaged in sports, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle.

Steps for Preventing Future Foot Pain

Although many factors contribute to foot pain, taking proactive steps to prevent future discomfort is essential for maintaining your foot health.

Here are some effective strategies:

Choose footwear with adequate arch support and cushioning to minimise outer foot pain.
Gradually increase your activity levels, incorporating rest days to avoid overuse injuries, a common cause of heel pain.
Engage in regular stretching and strengthening exercises for your feet and ankles, which will enhance flexibility and reduce the likelihood of ankle sprains.
Maintain proper body mechanics during exercise to prevent unnecessary strain on your foot.

When to Consult a Podiatrist

If you are experiencing persistent pain on the outside of your foot, it’s vital to consult a podiatrist, especially if the pain affects your daily activities. An accurate diagnosis is fundamental for effective treatment.

Here’s when to seek professional help:

Symptom	Action
Ongoing foot pain	Consult a podiatrist
Abnormal swelling	Undergo a physical examination
Limited mobility	Ask for imaging tests

A podiatrist can provide tailored solutions such as custom orthotics and rehabilitation exercises. Early intervention can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

Don’t wait—addressing your foot pain sooner than later ensures your mobility and long-term foot health.

In Closing...

Effectively managing pain on the outside of your foot is essential for maintaining your mobility and enhancing your overall quality of life. Identifying symptoms early, obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and exploring effective treatments can lead to lasting relief.

Just as a solid structure requires a strong foundation, prioritising foot health is crucial for an active lifestyle. If you’re experiencing discomfort or are concerned about your foot health, we encourage you to contact Bellevue Podiatry. Our dedicated team is here to provide personalised care and support and help you recover.

Check out our heel pain eBook below for further details on this special offer as well as other tips and techniques you can try at home to manage your plantar fasciitis and foot pain.

You don’t need to put up with heel pain any longer. Our team of experienced Podiatrists have the education and experience to get you moving pain free again. Take control today by booking in online or call us today on (03) 8104 9270 to get this issue sorted once and for all.

Foot Pain

Understand what causes your foot pain and what you can do to get rid of it once and for all. Find out what treatments can get you back to walking pain free so you can enjoy living an active life again!

Bellevue Podiatry

Nicole Hardidge - Heel Pain Principal Podiatrist

If you would like a deeper understanding of the content discussed in this article, please click on the links below:

https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/peroneal-tendon-injuries —American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society
https://www.healthline.com/health/lateral-foot-pain — Healthline
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/foot-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050792?j=1.html&p=1 – Mayo Clinic

Blog 134 – Shock Wave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis | How It Can Fix Your Heel Pain

Nicole Hardidge Uncategorized March 7, 2025March 7, 2025

If you’re struggling with heel pain due to plantar fasciitis, you might be interested in an innovative approach called shock wave treatment. This non-invasive therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in your foot.

Targeting inflammation and promoting blood flow offers potential relief from persistent discomfort. Are you curious about the mechanism of this treatment and its potential impact on your recuperation? Let’s explore the details further in our latest blog.

Key Takeaways

Shockwave treatment uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in plantar fasciitis patients.
It promotes tissue regeneration, improves blood flow, and decreases inflammation, offering lasting relief.
Effective for patients unresponsive to traditional treatments, with a 70–80% success rate in pain reduction.
Treatment sessions are quick, lasting only 15 to 20 minutes, with minimal downtime afterwards.
It is ideal for those seeking non-invasive alternatives to surgery or medication for chronic heel pain.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis and Its Causes

Plantar fasciitis, often resulting from repetitive strain, involves irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia. This thick ligament runs from your heel bone to your toes and supports your foot’s arch.

This condition frequently leads to sharp heel pain, particularly with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for extended periods.
Plantar fasciitis primarily causes repetitive strain from running, standing for long periods, and engaging in high-impact sports.
Plantar fasciitis commonly arises from repetitive strain due to running, prolonged standing, and high-impact sports activities.
Risk factors, including obesity, flat feet, and improper footwear, can also contribute to increasing tension on the plantar fascia.

Understanding these causes and risks is essential in managing symptoms effectively and preventing further injury.

What Is Shock Wave Treatment?

Plantar fasciitis often demands innovative treatment approaches, and shock wave therapy stands out as a leading option. This non-invasive treatment, known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy, uses high-energy acoustic waves to target damaged tissue in the heel.

Creating microtrauma in the affected area promotes increased blood flow and stimulates collagen production, aiding tissue repair. Typically, patients undergo 3-6 sessions lasting 10-20 minutes each, with mild discomfort reported akin to pressure on a bruise.

Many patients notice pain relief within hours to days following treatment, improving cumulative benefits. Shock wave treatment for plantar fasciitis boasts an effectiveness rate of up to 80%, making it a compelling alternative before considering more invasive options.

How Shock Wave Treatment Works

Shock wave treatment effectively uses high-energy acoustic waves to address inflammation in the plantar fascia by creating controlled microtrauma in the affected tissue.

This extracorporeal shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis promotes tissue healing, enhances metabolic activity, and stimulates collagen production, facilitating recovery.

Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis accelerates the body’s natural healing processes by breaking down calcifications within tendons.

Mechanism	Effect	Outcome
High-energy waves	Creates microtrauma	Promotes tissue healing
Increased blood flow	Enhances metabolic activity	Accelerates recovery
Collagen stimulation	Improves tissue strength	Reduces pain symptoms
Treatment sessions	Typically 3-6 weeks apart	Heel pain relief
Discomfort	Pressure sensation akin to bruising	Aids healing process

Benefits of Shock Wave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Effective relief from heel pain is achievable through shock wave treatment for plantar fasciitis, which boasts a success rate of 44%-80% among patients.
This non-invasive treatment, ESWT for plantar fasciitis, delivers high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate tissue healing and promote collagen production.
Patients often experience significant pain relief as blood circulation improves within 0 -12 hours post-treatment.
The therapy typically involves 4 - 6 sessions, allowing for progressive decreases in pain with each visit.
By opting for shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis, you can effectively address persistent heel pain and potentially avoid more invasive procedures like surgery or cortisone injections.
Most patients find the procedure well tolerated and report only mild discomfort.

What to Expect During Your Treatment Session

During your treatment session, you’ll undergo an initial assessment to determine your suitability for shockwave therapy and ensure that this approach aligns with your specific needs.

Following this, a diagnostic ultrasound will check the affected area’s condition.

A hand-held probe delivers high-energy acoustic waves using ultrasound gel to comfort patients during shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis.

Each treatment session lasts 10 to 20 minutes, and your feedback will adjust the intensity to maintain comfort. You might experience mild discomfort, akin to pressing on a bruise, but this is essential for healing.

Expect to attend 3 to 6 weekly sessions, with noticeable pain relief often reported within hours after treatment and progressive improvement over time.

When To Consider Shockwave Therapy For Heel Pain

If plantar fasciitis symptoms linger despite trying standard treatments, it’s time to contemplate shockwave therapy for heel pain. This non-invasive option might be right for you if:

Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis (ESWT) can stimulate healing in those struggling with chronic heel pain. Addressing inflammation and promoting blood flow may bring the relief you need, especially when other methods have fallen short.

Shockwave therapy can enhance healing for chronic heel pain by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.

Always consult a healthcare professional to ascertain if it’s a suitable option for you.

In Closing...

In summary, shock wave treatment offers a promising solution for those suffering from plantar fasciitis by targeting inflammation and promoting healing within your foot. This innovative therapy can help you regain comfort and mobility, enabling you to return to the activities you love.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward relief from heel pain, visit Bellevue Podiatry. Our dedicated team is here to guide you on your journey to recovery.

Check out our heel pain eBook below for further details on this special offer as well as other tips and techniques you can try at home to manage your plantar fasciitis and foot pain.

You don’t need to put up with heel pain any longer. Our team of experienced Podiatrists have the education and experience to get you moving pain free again. Take control today by booking in online or call us today on (03) 8104 9270 to get this issue sorted once and for all.

Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Understand what causes your foot pain and what you can do to get rid of it once and for all. Find out what treatments can get you back to walking pain free so you can enjoy living an active life again!

Bellevue Podiatry

Nicole Hardidge - Heel Pain Principal Podiatrist

If you would like a deeper understanding of the content discussed in this article, please click on the links below:

Blog 133 – Pain Behind Heel | What Could Be Causing It & Lasting Podiatry Treatments | Heel Pain Clinic

Nicole Hardidge Uncategorized March 1, 2025March 11, 2025

Experiencing pain behind your heel can feel like a debilitating burden that interrupts your daily life. Whether it’s a sharp sting with each step or a persistent ache, understanding what’s causing this discomfort is essential for effective relief.

Various factors can contribute to your heel pain, and knowing them could be the key to your recovery journey. Find out what solutions are available to address this common issue.

Key Takeaways

Common causes of pain behind the heel include Achilles tendinopathy, heel bursitis, and tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms often present as sharp pain, swelling, or tingling sensations, especially in the morning.
Diagnostic approaches involve physical exams, patient history, and imaging tests to determine the cause.
Effective treatments include conservative methods, custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and shock wave therapy for chronic issues.
Self-care strategies like calf stretches, ice application, and proper rest can aid relief and healing.

Common Causes of Pain Behind the Heel

When you experience pain behind your heel, it’s often linked to specific conditions such as Achilles tendinitis, heel bursitis, or tarsal tunnel syndrome:

Achilles tendonitis, a common issue, arises from overuse injuries, creating inflammation and discomfort in the tendon.
Bursitis can cause posterior heel pain due to inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the tendon.
Achilles tendinitis and bursitis can lead to painful inflammation in the tendon and surrounding heel areas.
Flat footwear can stretch the plantar fascia, leading to swelling and pain, further complicating your condition.
Poor foot mechanics, like high or low arches, can exacerbate these conditions, stressing the Achilles tendon.
Lifestyle factors such as excessive running, improper footwear, and obesity can increase the risk of developing heel pain.

Symptoms Associated With Heel Pain

Heel pain manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact your daily activities. You may experience pain behind the heel, a sore heel, or even pain in the back of the heel, particularly when getting out of bed or after prolonged sitting.

Common causes include conditions like plantar fasciitis, which often leads to morning stiffness and can worsen with activity, reducing mobility. If left untreated, these issues can escalate into chronic pain.

A physical examination can help identify the underlying causes, and taking anti-inflammatory medication may provide temporary relief. Exploring nonsurgical treatment approaches, such as rest, custom orthotics, or physical therapy, is essential for effectively managing heel pain and restoring function.

Diagnostic Approaches in Podiatry

Accurately identifying the underlying cause of your heel pain is paramount for effective treatment.

Your podiatrist will conduct a thorough physical examination, evaluating the location and severity of your pain, range of motion, and any visible signs of inflammation or deformities.

Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be used to identify structural issues or fractures contributing to your discomfort.

Diagnostic Approach	Purpose	Key Considerations
Physical Examination	Evaluate pain location, severity, and range of motion	Visible signs of inflammation or deformities
Imaging Tests	Identify structural issues, fractures, or inflammation	X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasound may be used
Patient History	Understand contributing factors and guide treatment	Activity levels, footwear choices, previous injuries

Your podiatrist will also evaluate your foot biomechanics and gait to identify any underlying issues that may exacerbate your heel pain. This extensive diagnostic approach enables the development of targeted treatment strategies to address the root cause of your discomfort and provide lasting relief.

Effective Podiatry Treatment Options

What treatment options can effectively address your heel pain? Our Podiatrists will consider a multifaceted approach to alleviate conditions like retrocalcaneal bursitis and insertional Achilles tendinopathy that are causing your heel pain.

Treatment Options	Description
Orthotics	Custom devices to support your foot and alleviate foot pain back of heel.
Physical Therapy	Exercises and stretches to enhance flexibility and reduce sharp pain in back of heel.
Over-the-Counter Medications	Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen for pain relief.
Supportive Footwear	Shoes with proper cushioning and support, essential for preventive measures.
Advanced Technologies	Innovative treatments like laser therapy and Electrical Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for enhanced recovery.

These treatment options promote healing and help manage symptoms, allowing you to return to your usual activities. Remember, early intervention can lead to successful treatment and quicker recovery from heel pain. Additionally, using well-constructed footwear can help prevent plantar fasciitis and other heel issues from developing.

Please watch the following video tutorial from licenced UK healthcare provider Sports Injury Clinic to give you a better understanding of the physical therapy exercises that may be recommended to you by one of your heel pain podiatrists:

Self-Care Strategies for Relief

While seeking professional podiatry care is essential for managing heel pain, you can also implement self-care strategies to find relief and support the healing process:

Regularly stretching your calf muscles and plantar fascia can alleviate tension and prevent exacerbation of conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times daily reduces inflammation and provides temporary relief from pain in the back of your heel or foot.
Maintaining a healthy weight decreases strain on your heel and lower extremities.
Wear supportive footwear with sufficient arch support and cushioning to distribute weight evenly and minimise stress.
To promote healing and prevent further irritation, avoid activities that place excessive pressure on your heel, such as running on hard surfaces.

When to Seek Professional Help

Although self-care strategies can relieve pain behind the heel, it’s important to recognise when professional intervention becomes necessary.

While home remedies can ease heel pain, knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.

Suppose you’ve been experiencing persistent back heel injury, heel pain, or symptoms of Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis for over three weeks despite home remedies. In that case, it’s time to seek professional help from a podiatrist.

Watch out for these signs that indicate the need for medical evaluation:

Factors such as obesity or recent changes in activity level may also warrant a consultation to prevent further complications and guarantee lasting relief.

In Closing...

Understanding the causes of pain behind the heel is crucial for effective relief. Common causes include Achilles tendonitis, which affects the back of the heel, and bursitis, which involves inflammation around the heel.

Ignoring this discomfort can lead to chronic issues that impair mobility and quality of life. Early intervention with self-care strategies, such as rest and proper footwear, is essential, but a professional evaluation is critical for personalised treatment.

For lasting solutions and expert care, consult Bellevue Podiatry for a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plan.

Check out our heel pain eBook below for further details on this special offer as well as other tips and techniques you can try at home to manage your plantar fasciitis and foot pain.

You don’t need to put up with heel pain any longer. Our team of experienced Podiatrists have the education and experience to get you moving pain free again. Take control today by booking in online or call us today on (03) 8104 9270 to get this issue sorted once and for all.

Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Understand what causes your foot pain and what you can do to get rid of it once and for all. Find out what treatments can get you back to walking pain free so you can enjoy living an active life again!

Bellevue Podiatry

Nicole Hardidge - Heel Pain Principal Podiatrist

If you would like a deeper understanding of the content discussed in this article, please click on the links below:

Cleveland Clinic: S. heel pain: causes, diagnosis, and treatment, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/heel-pain
Ankle and Foot Centres—Why Does My Heel Hurt? A Foot Doctor Explains the Causes, https://ankleandfootcenters.com/why-does-my-heel-hurt/
MedicalNewsToday discusses the causes, prevention, and treatments of heel pain. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/181453
Mayo Clinic – Heel Pain Causes, https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/heel-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050788
Better Health Channel – Foot problems – heel pain, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/foot-problems-heel-pain