Heel pain can creep in quietly. It might start as a small niggle when you first get out of bed or a dull ache after a long day on your feet. But over time, that discomfort can begin to impact how you move—whether it’s walking, exercising, or even just doing the weekly shop.
If you’ve found yourself avoiding certain shoes, cutting your walks short, or wondering why your heel always feels sore, you’re not alone. Heel pain is incredibly common. And while it’s rarely anything serious, it can be frustrating and limiting—especially if it drags on without a clear answer.
As a physiotherapist, I regularly see people who’ve been putting up with heel pain for weeks or even months. They’re often unsure about what’s causing it, or whether it’s “bad enough” to need treatment. The good news? In most cases, it can be treated—and the earlier we get a handle on it, the better the outcome.
When you come to see me with pain in or around your heel, my first step (pun absolutely intended!) is always a thorough assessment. The aim is to identify the underlying cause, understand what’s contributing to your pain, and tailor a plan to help you move comfortably again.Stretching Exercises
👣 What to Expect from This Blog Series.....
Over the next few articles, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons for heel pain and what you can do about them. Whether your pain is new or something you’ve been living with for a while, this series is designed to help you understand:
* The most common causes of heel pain
* How different types of heel pain typically behave
* Practical tips for managing symptoms and looking after your feet
* How I can help through Physiotherapy
The Common Heel Pain Culprits We’ll Explore:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendon Irritation
- Fat Pad Irritation
- Heel Spurs
- Joint or Nerve Sensitivity
Understanding your pain is the first step towards getting back on your feet—comfortably and confidently. Stay tuned as we dive into each of these conditions in more detail, bust a few common myths, and share evidence-based advice to support your recovery.