MedDroidSymptom guide
Heel pain: causes, warning signs & what to do
Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed
Medically reviewedHeel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis — a strain of the tissue under the foot. The classic sign is sharp pain with the first steps in the morning.
Possible causes
Common causes of heel pain
- Plantar fasciitis — sharp pain under the heel with the first steps of the day
- Achilles tendon pain — at the back of the heel, worse with walking or running
- Heel spur — a bony growth often found alongside plantar fasciitis
- Inflammatory arthritis, such as ankylosing spondylitis, can inflame the heel
- Gout, occasionally
- Stress fracture from overuse, or hard, flat footwear
Self-care
What you can do now
- Wear cushioned footwear with arch support, even at home
- Gently stretch the calf and the sole of the foot, especially before getting out of bed
- Roll the foot over a cold bottle for a few minutes
- Reduce long standing and running on hard surfaces for a while
Red flags
When to see a doctor urgently
- Heel pain after an injury with swelling and inability to walk
- A red, hot, swollen heel with fever
- Numbness or tingling in the foot with heel pain
- A sudden "snap" at the back of the heel (possible Achilles tendon rupture) — seek urgent care
Checks
Tests a doctor may suggest
Depending on your history and examination, a doctor may suggest some of these. Your doctor decides which, if any, you need.
Explore more
Related pages
References
Sources & further reading
Frequently asked questions
Why does my heel hurt in the morning?
Pain with the first steps after waking is typical of plantar fasciitis. The tissue tightens overnight and is stretched suddenly when you stand.
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
It often improves over a few months with stretching, good footwear and reduced load. See a doctor if it is not improving.
Is a heel spur the cause of my pain?
Not always. Many people have heel spurs without pain. The pain usually comes from the strained tissue around it.