Heel Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Heel Pain?
A primary care doctor can examine your heel and start treatment. You may be referred to a podiatrist, a doctor who treats foot problems, or an orthopedic doctor, who treats bone and joint problems. A physical therapist can teach foot exercises. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is heel pain?
Heel pain is pain or discomfort at the back, bottom, or sides of the heel. The pain may be sharp, aching, or burning. It can range from mild to severe. Heel problems are common.
Symptoms
These patterns can point to different causes.
- Sharp pain between the arch and heel that is worse when you start walking and better with rest can be plantar fasciitis, which is swelling of the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot.
- Pain at the back of the heel and in the ankle and calf can be Achilles tendonitis.
- Redness, swelling, and a dull aching pain in the heel can be bursitis.
- Sudden sharp pain, swelling, and a popping or snapping sound during an injury can mean a heel fracture or a ruptured Achilles tendon.
See a doctor to find the cause. Do not try to work it out yourself.
Causes and who gets it
Heel pain is most often the result of overuse, but an injury can also cause it. Your heel may become tender or swollen from shoes with poor support, running on hard surfaces, running too often, or a tight calf muscle or Achilles tendon. Landing hard or awkwardly on your heel can also cause it.
Conditions that can cause heel pain include Achilles tendon swelling, bursitis, bone spurs, plantar fasciitis, and a broken heel bone. Being overweight can add stress to the heel. Over time, stress can cause bone spurs and deformities. Rheumatoid arthritis and gout can also lead to heel problems.
How doctors diagnose it
Your provider will do a physical exam and ask about your medical history and symptoms. You may be asked if the pain starts with your first steps in the morning, if it is worse after exercise, and what kind of shoes you wear.
Your provider may order a foot x-ray. Sometimes a CT scan or MRI is needed.
Treatment
Home care may help. You can rest as much as possible for at least a week and use crutches to take weight off your feet. Ice the painful area at least twice a day for 10 to 15 minutes. You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for the pain. Wear well-fitted, supportive shoes.
A heel cup, felt pads, a shoe insert, night splints, or a walking boot may also help. Gentle stretching exercises can help too. You may see a physical therapist to learn exercises that stretch and strengthen your foot. Surgery is rarely needed, but it may be recommended in some cases.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if heel pain does not get better after 2 to 3 weeks of home treatment. Also contact your provider if the pain is getting worse, or is sudden and severe. Do the same if you have redness or swelling of your heel, or you cannot put weight on your foot even after resting. Tell your doctor about any tingling or loss of feeling in your foot, or if you have diabetes and heel pain.
Get medical help right away if you heard a snap, grinding, or popping noise during an injury, or if your ankle or foot has changed shape or sits at an odd angle. Get urgent help too if you have severe heel pain after an injury, cannot walk, or feel faint, dizzy, or sick from the pain. If you think you might have broken your heel bone, do not try to treat it yourself.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can examine your heel, suggest home care, order a foot x-ray, and refer you to a foot or orthopedic specialist if needed.
Common questions
Is heel pain the same as plantar fasciitis?
No. Plantar fasciitis is one condition that can cause heel pain. Other causes include Achilles tendon problems, bursitis, bone spurs, and a broken heel bone.
How long should I try home care?
Try home care for 2 to 3 weeks. Contact your provider if the pain has not improved by then.
Can heel pain be prevented?
Some types can be. Strong, flexible calf, ankle, and foot muscles help prevent some types of heel pain. Wear comfortable shoes with good arch support and cushioning, and leave enough room for your toes.
Will I need surgery for heel pain?
Surgery is rarely needed for heel pain. Treatments might include rest, medicines, exercises, taping, and special shoes.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
