Why Does My Heel Hurt? 5 Common Causes of Heel Pain

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot becomes irritated. It often causes sharp heel pain with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods.

2. Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. Overuse, repetetive exercise, or tight calf muscles can irritate the tendon, causing pain and stiffness at the back of the heel. 

3. Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are small, bony growths that can develop on the heel bone. Although they do not always cause symptoms, they may occur alongside plantar fasciitis and contribute to heel discomfort.

4. Improper Footwear

Shoes with inadequate cushioning or arch support can place extra stress on your heels. Wearing supportive, well-fitting footwear may help reduce discomfort and prevent further irritation. 

5. Stress Fractures

Repeated impact from activities such as running or jumping can cause tiny cracks in the heel bone. Stress fractures may cause persistent pain that worsens with weight-bearing and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. 

How Can You Relieve Heel Pain?

Depending on the cause, treatment may include rest, ice, gentle stretching, supportive footwear, orthotics, or physical theraphy. Persistent or severe pain may require further evaluation and specialized treatment. 

If your heel pain continues, worsens, or interferes with daily activities, a podiatrist can identify the underlying cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.