Heel Pain: Why Do Your Heels Hurt?

Heel pain is one of the most common bio-mechanical problems people ask us about. Heel pain can affect anyone from all stages and walks of life. Heel pain can  limit your daily activities and in severe cases can be quite debilitating. The key is always seeking sound advice early to prevent chronic pain.

Heel Pain: Why Do Your Heels Hurt? 1

Heel pain affects people from all walks of life

People with Increased Risk of Heel Pain

Some people have an increased risk of heel pain:

  • People who are on their feet for long periods of time: Some occupations require long hours standing or walking e.g. teachers, trades, hospitality and retail.
  • Physically active people: High impact sports and gym activities can contribute to or cause heel pain.
  • Pregnant women: Hormonal changes soften ligaments and tendons. The extra weight carried during and after pregnancy plus this hormonally induced stretch can change the way your feet function and cause heel pain 
  • Children who’s feet are still growing and developing: Children are vulnerable to heel pain during periods of rapid growth, especially if they are very active.
  • People who are overweight: Part of everyone’s health routine is keeping active. People who are overweight place extra strain on their feet and we can help with some strategies to help you lose weight and stay comfortable while you are active.

As you can see, there are many different reasons you may suffer from heel pain. To get you back on track pain free needs a clear understanding of the underlying  issue, knowledge, skill, experience and patience. We promise to always do our very best for you. We listen to your medical history, perform a detailed physical examination, bio-mechanical tests and gait analysis. We will refer you for x-rays or diagnostic ultrasounds if needed to help pin point the cause of your pain.

Once we fully understand the cause of your pain, we will help you get your feet back in tip top condition through a range of treatments. Depending on your activity level, occupation and the cause of your heel pain, we might suggest a range of treatments.

Reasons for Heel Pain

  • Poorly fitted shoes: So many foot problems are caused by shoes! We can help you chose shoes that fit well and help resolve your painful heels. Always bring your shoes to your first appointment so we can assess your current footwear and suggest what to look for, how to lace or other tips and tricks to make your footwear fit well and feel comfortable.
  • Injuries to your heel area such as stress fractures 
  • Abnormal walking styles: Our podiatrists are skilled at assessing and treating bio-mechanical disorders. 
  • Nerve enlargement (neuroma): A serious problem if not treated well early
  • Arthritis: We can assist with a range of treatments to keep you comfortable and moibile
  • Diabetes: Diabetes Australia recommend you have your feet checked by a podiatrist at least every six months and more often if your diabetes is not well controlled or you are very active
  • Obesity and weight issues: Keeping active helps you keep you within a healthy weight range. So ask us for help today! 
  • Plantar fasciitis: One of the most common heel pains we see every day. 
  • Severs Disease: Growing children who are very active may suffer this heel pain especially if they are involved in high impact sports

Heel Pain Treatment

  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Flexibility exercises
  • Splints
  • Prescription orthotics
  • Strapping
  • Foot massage
We want to give you rapid relief from heel pain and assist your full recovery so you can get back to doing all the things you love… pain free.
We’re always happy to help, so call our friendly team today on (08) 9319 3030 or book online at https://www.perthpodiatrist.com.au