Heel Pain - Seabrook & Portsmouth, NH Podiatrist | Nagy Footcare

Heel Pain

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is pain in the bottom of the heel or the back of the heel.

What causes heel pain?

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue, called the plantar fascia, that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone.

Overpronation is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis – as the foot rolls inward excessively when walking, it flattens the foot, lengthens the arch, and puts added tension on the plantar fascia. Over time, this causes inflammation.

Common symptoms:

  • Stabbing pain in the bottom or back of the heel, especially first thing in the morning
  • Pain gets worse after exercise, not during exercise
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty bending the foot or walking normally

How do we treat you?

We will perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms. We’ll evaluate your health history and if conservative treatment fails, we may recommend further solutions.

Usually, heel pain can be treated conservatively by:

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Wearing properly fitting and supportive shoes
  • Wearing foot supports such as heel cups or wedges
  • Stretching exercises
  • Physical therapy
  • Orthotic devices
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories

When to visit Nagy Footcare

If you have persistent or severe pain, tingling, or numbness in the heel, it’s important to schedule a consultation at Nagy Footcare because you may need further evaluation and treatment options.