Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Available at Gawler and Elizabeth Vale
Heel pain is one of the most common reasons people see a podiatrist. It often feels like a sharp or bruised pain under the heel, worst with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. The most common cause is plantar fasciitis (also called plantar fasciopathy), an overload of the thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar heel pain is a special interest of our clinic.
What causes heel pain?
- Plantar fasciitis: overload of the plantar fascia under the heel
- Achilles tendinopathy: pain at the back of the heel
- Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysitis): heel pain in active children aged about 8 to 12
- Less common causes such as stress fractures, nerve irritation, fat pad problems or strain of the small muscles under the foot
- Common risk factors include a sudden increase in walking, running or standing; unsupportive footwear; weight gain; tight calf muscles; and foot posture.
Signs and symptoms
- Pain under the heel with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after rest that eases once you get moving, then returns later in the day
- Pain with long periods of standing or walking
- Tenderness when pressing under the heel
How we can help
Getting the diagnosis right comes first. Heel pain has many possible causes, and each needs different treatment. We start with a thorough assessment of your heel, how you walk and stand, your footwear and your activity, to identify the cause of your pain and rule out other causes. Treatment is then tailored to you and may include:
- Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing in long-standing heel pain (at our Gawler clinic)
- Custom orthotics, off-the-shelf orthotics or heel lifts to reduce load on the heel
- Strapping (taping) to support the foot and offload the heel
- Rehabilitation, with an individual stretching and strengthening program
- Individualised footwear assessment and advice, matched to your foot type and biomechanics
- Dry needling or acupuncture
- Cold laser or ultrasound therapy
- Advice on managing your activity, work and sport while it settles
- Mobilisation to help restore joint function
What to expect at your appointment
Our podiatrist will:
- Ask about your pain, health, work, activity and footwear
- Examine your foot and leg, and assess how you walk
- Explain what is causing your pain in plain language
- Agree on a treatment plan with you and start treatment on the day where possible
Please bring the shoes you wear most often, including work shoes.
Funding and referrals
No referral is needed. Private health extras may cover part of the cost. If you have a GP Chronic Disease Management plan, NDIS plan or WorkCover claim, let us know when booking.
Heel pain treatment in Gawler and Elizabeth common questions:
Do I need an X-ray or scan?
Most heel pain can be diagnosed from your history and examination. When required, our podiatrists can refer you directly for X-rays and ultrasound, for example if we suspect another cause such as a stress fracture.
Will I need orthotics forever?
Not always. Orthotics are often used to reduce load while the heel settles, alongside strengthening, and we review whether you still need them.
What can I do at home in the meantime?
Wear supportive shoes rather than going barefoot or wearing flat thongs, gently stretch your calves, and reduce activities that make the pain worse until you can be assessed.
Book an appointment in Gawler or Elizabeth Vale
Book an appointment
Heel pain assessment and treatment is available at our Gawler clinic (16 Adelaide Road) and Elizabeth Vale clinic (109 Haydown Road). Shockwave therapy is available at our Gawler clinic. Book online or call us