Expert Care for Heel Pain and Foot Discomfort

Heel pain is a common condition that can significantly affect daily activities. Often caused by irritation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia), heel pain may occur in the front, back, or bottom of the heel. At Urgent Care for Feet, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heel pain promptly to restore mobility and prevent worsening symptoms.

img_heel_pain_02Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is frequently linked to faulty biomechanics or excessive stress on the heel bone. Contributing factors include:

  • Injuries to the heel or plantar fascia
  • Walking or running on hard surfaces
  • Wearing unsuitable footwear
  • Being overweight, which increases strain

Heel spurs (calcium deposits that protrude from the heel bone, visible on X-rays)

When to Seek Heel Pain Treatment

If heel pain does not improve with rest — particularly if it worsens after a night’s sleep due to stretching of the plantar fascia — it’s crucial to seek professional care. Delaying treatment can cause symptoms to worsen and lead to more complex issues.

Treatment Options for Heel Pain

At Urgent Care for Feet, podiatrists may recommend a range of conservative treatments, including:

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Physical therapy
  • Custom or over-the-counter orthotics (such as ¾ length Powerstep supports, recommended by Dr. Hurless)
  • Heel cushions and pads to relieve pressure
  • Supportive footwear with cushioned or elevated heels

These interventions help manage pain, support healing, and prevent recurrence.

Lifestyle Modifications for Relief and Prevention

Lifestyle changes play a key role in both treatment and prevention of heel pain, including:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce heel stress
  • Choosing footwear with arch support and cushioning
  • Avoiding prolonged standing, hard-surface running, and high heels
  • Incorporating simple daily exercises such as toe stretches, calf stretches, and towel stretches to keep the plantar fascia flexible

Advanced Care for Persistent Heel Pain

For cases that do not respond to conservative measures, more advanced treatments may be necessary. Consulting with a foot care specialist ensures a tailored treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your heel pain.

Urgent Care for Heel Pain

Early intervention is critical in managing heel pain effectively. Many patients delay treatment, which can lead to worsening pain, limited mobility, and more complex treatment needs. At Urgent Care for Feet, we provide timely evaluation and targeted treatment to relieve pain, restore function, and help you return to your normal activities quickly.

Contact Us Today for Same-Day Foot & Ankle Care

If you’re experiencing a sudden foot or ankle injury, infection, or serious pain, don’t wait at the ER.

Why Urgent Care for Feet

img01
We can treat 90% of cases seen in an emergency room for a fraction of the cost.
img02
All of our doctors have on average 15+ year of experience specializing in foot and ankle care.
img03
We provide on site x-ray that is designed specifically for foot and ankle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Heel pain is often caused by overuse, injury, or conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis.

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain.

Heel pain is diagnosed through a physical examination, patient history, and sometimes imaging tests like X-rays.

Preventive measures include wearing supportive shoes, stretching the feet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding overexertion.

Treatments include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, orthotics, and in severe cases, surgery.

Recovery time varies, but most people improve within a few weeks to a few months with proper treatment.

Untreated heel pain can lead to chronic pain, limping, and foot, knee, hip, or back problems.

See a doctor if heel pain persists, worsens, or affects daily activities.

Heel pain can often be cured with treatment, but some chronic conditions may cause recurring pain.

In rare cases, heel pain can indicate a more serious condition like a bone fracture or infection.

Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, proper footwear, and weight management can help manage heel pain.

Yes, frequently wearing high heels can contribute to heel pain and other foot problems.

Heel pain is more common in middle-aged individuals, but can occur at any age.

Yes, custom orthotics can help alleviate heel pain by providing proper foot support.

Heel pain often increases with activity, especially after long periods of rest or in the morning.

Schedule an Appointment