Foot and heel pain can sneak up quietly, turning everyday activities like walking, standing, or even getting out of bed into uncomfortable challenges. Maybe you’ve noticed a sharp pain under your heel, soreness in the arch, or persistent discomfort that doesn’t improve with rest. These aches are more than minor annoyances—they often signal underlying issues that need attention.
A podiatrist specialises in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle problems, offering solutions that go beyond temporary relief. From identifying biomechanical imbalances to recommending supportive footwear or targeted treatments, they can address the root cause of your pain.
Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, or other common conditions, professional care can help restore comfort and mobility. Understanding the most frequent causes of foot and heel pain and how a podiatrist can help is the first step towards moving without pain again.
Top 5 common foot and heel pain issues
1. Plantar fasciitis
This is one of the most common causes of heel pain.
- What it is: Inflammation and micro-tears in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.
- Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Pain often lessens with activity but returns after prolonged standing.
2. Achilles tendinitis
This involves the largest tendon in the body.
- What it is: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, usually due to overuse or sudden increases in activity.
- Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the back of the heel and lower leg, often worse in the morning or after exercise. The area may feel tender or warm.
3. Bunions
A common deformity affecting the big toe joint.
- What it is: A bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing the big toe to lean towards the second toe. It often develops due to wearing ill-fitting shoes.
- Symptoms: A visible bump, pain, swelling, and redness around the big toe joint, and limited movement of the toe.
4. Ingrown toenails
A common and painful nail condition.
- What it is: Occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing irritation.
- Symptoms: Pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness at the corner of the nail, often leading to infection if left untreated.
5. Corns and calluses
These are skin issues caused by friction and pressure.
- What it is: Thickened layers of skin that develop to protect the foot from friction and pressure. Calluses are generally larger and flatter, while corns are smaller, more focused, and can be very painful.
- Symptoms: Hard, rough areas of skin, tenderness or pain under the skin, and hardened, raised bumps (especially with corns).
How a Podiatrist Can Help
A podiatrist specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They are essential for managing both acute and chronic foot pain.
| Condition | Podiatrist’s Treatment Approach |
| 1. Plantar Fasciitis | Custom orthotics to provide arch support and redistribute pressure; stretching/strengthening exercises; night splints; footwear advice; and advanced treatments like steroid injections or extracorporeal shock wave therapy. |
| 2. Achilles Tendinitis | R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol; specific stretching and strengthening exercises; heel lifts or custom orthotics to reduce tendon strain; physical therapy; and, in severe cases, surgical options. |
| 3. Bunions | Footwear modification; protective padding; custom orthotics to improve foot alignment; splints or toe spacers; and referral for bunionectomy surgery if conservative care fails. |
| 4. Ingrown Toenails | Safe, sterile removal of the offending nail edge; cleaning and dressing the wound; topical or oral antibiotics for infection; and minor office procedures to permanently prevent recurrence. |
| 5. Corns & Calluses | Safe debridement (professional removal/trimming) of the thickened skin, custom orthotics to relieve pressure, and advice on proper footwear and protective padding to prevent recurrence. |
A podiatrist will typically begin with a thorough physical exam and gait analysis to understand your unique biomechanics, often using X-rays or ultrasound for precise diagnosis before creating a personalised treatment plan.
Final thoughts
Experiencing foot and heel pain can disrupt your daily life, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Consulting with a podiatrist is crucial, as they possess the expertise to diagnose the underlying issues and create a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. With their guidance, you can restore comfort, enhance mobility, and ultimately improve your quality of life.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a podiatrist today and take the first step towards pain-free movement!
Book an appointment with one of our podiatrists to get help and support for your heels, ankles and lower legs so you can feel and move better.
