What you may feel
- Pain may occur under, inside or behind the heel for different reasons.
- First morning steps or walking after sitting may be painful.
- Pain may return or increase after prolonged walking or standing.
- Pain behind the heel may worsen with running or rising onto tiptoes.
- Burning, numbness or tingling may suggest a nerve-related component.
How it is assessed
Examination distinguishes fascia, tendon, nerve and injury-related causes. X-rays, ultrasound or MRI are used selectively.
Explain how far you can walk, which footwear you use and which movements hurt. Mention recent injury or changes in activity.
Approaches to care
Care is tailored to the cause through activity, footwear, exercise and pain management. Similar heel pain does not always need the same treatment.
Discuss realistic walking, work or exercise goals with your clinician. At follow-up, describe changes after activity and how long pain lasted.
When to seek urgent help
Inability to bear weight after injury, a hot red joint with fever, or a suddenly cold pale foot need urgent assessment.
Further reading: NHS
This is educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Similar symptoms alone do not establish a diagnosis.