Not all heel pain is plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis commonly causes pain under the heel or along the arch, often most noticeable with the first steps after rest. Other problems can also cause heel pain, including tendon or bone injuries. The site of pain, activity history and examination help distinguish possible causes.
What an assessment may involve
Tell your osteopath where the heel hurts, whether symptoms change after walking and how work footwear or standing time affects it. Mention a recent injury, changes in training, diabetes or altered sensation. Examination may include the foot, ankle, calf and walking pattern.
Care and rehabilitation
A suitable plan may include adjusting painful activity, discussing footwear and progressively strengthening the foot and calf. Exercise and stretching need to be tailored to the assessment. Podiatry or medical review may be useful for some presentations; orthotics are not automatically required for everyone with heel pain.
Making a plan that fits your workday
If you stand for work, bring details of shift length, available breaks and required footwear. Agree on practical changes you can actually use, then review walking and standing tolerance. Persistent pain or worsening symptoms should lead to reassessment.
When to seek medical help
Seek medical care for severe pain after injury, inability to walk, a red hot swollen foot with fever, or a new wound or altered sensation. People with diabetes should seek timely advice for foot pain or skin changes.
Related information
Further reading
General information from Muscle Joint Bone Epping. Your clinician will discuss how it applies to you.