Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. Whether you’re dealing with sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot or discomfort in the back of your heel, Surrey Foot Service is here to help. We specialise in diagnosing and treating heel pain offering effective treatments tailored to your individual needs.

What causes Heel Pain?

Heel pain can result from various conditions, and some are more common than others. Our team at Surrey Foot Service is experienced in identifying the exact cause of your pain and providing the most effective treatments.

Common causes of Heel Pain

  • Plantar Fasciitis: The most common cause of heel pain caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot.
  • Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, causing pain at the back of the heel.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac) near the heel, causing pain and swelling.
  • Stress Fractures: Tiny fractures in the heel bone due to repetitive stress or impact activities.
  • Sever’s Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis): A common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress.

Symptoms of Heel Pain

Heel pain can manifest in various ways and symptoms typically depend on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
  • Pain that worsens after standing, walking or running.
  • Swelling, redness or warmth in the heel area.
  • Tightness or stiffness in the foot or calf muscles.
  • Pain in the back or bottom of the heel (especially in children or active teens—could indicate Sever’s Disease).

Sever’s Disease: Special consideration for children and teens

Sever’s Disease is a condition affecting the growth plate at the back of the heel in growing children and adolescents. It commonly occurs during a growth spurt, especially in active kids involved in lots of sports. 

Signs of Sever’s Disease:

  • Pain in the back of the heel particularly during physical activity.
  • Pain that is worse after running, jumping or sports that involve a lot of foot movement.
  • Swelling or tenderness in the heel area.
  • Limited range of motion or tightness in the calf muscles.

While Sever’s Disease is typically a temporary condition that resolves after growth slows down, it can be quite painful and interfere with a child’s activity. Our podiatrists can help by offering effective treatment options that alleviate discomfort and support healthy foot development.

How we can help: Comprehensive heel pain treatment

At Surrey Foot Service, we take a holistic approach to heel pain. We offer a range of treatments designed to address the root cause of the pain 

1. Detailed assessment and diagnosis

Our first step is to perform a thorough examination of your foot and ankle. We may use diagnostic tools such as ultrasound imaging to confirm the cause of the heel pain and rule out other conditions. We may recommend 3D or video Gait Analysis if we suspect the cause of the pain is due to your biomechanics. 

2. Non-surgical treatment options

Our goal is to help you recover without surgery. Common treatments include:

  • Custom orthotics: Tailored shoe inserts designed to provide support and reduce pressure on the affected areas.
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises: Specific exercises to stretch the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
  • Shockwave therapy: Non-invasive treatment using sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. We may refer you for this.
  • Anti-inflammatory Medications: To help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.

3. Advanced treatments for persistent pain

In cases where conservative treatments don’t provide relief, we offer advanced options, such as:

  • Corticosteroid injections: To manage inflammation and provide short-term relief.
  • Referral for surgery: In rare cases surgical intervention may be necessary. We have close links with local foot and ankle surgeons who specialise in this.

Why choose Surrey Foot Service?

  • Expert Care: Our team of experienced podiatrists has extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating all types of heel pain including Sever’s Disease.
  • Personalised Treatment Plans: We take the time to understand your unique situation and offer tailored treatment options to suit your needs.
  • Child and Adolescent Care: We specialize in treating growing feet and understand the unique needs of children and teenagers dealing with Sever’s Disease.
  • Convenient Location: We’re easily accessible in Surrey offering flexible appointment times to fit your schedule.
  • Comprehensive Services: Whether you need conservative care or advanced treatments, we provide a full range of options to help you recover and return to daily activities.

Schedule an appointment today

If you’re dealing with heel pain, don’t let it slow you down. Schedule an appointment with one of our expert podiatrists. We’ll help you find a solution that gets you back on your feet, pain-free.