The medical term for heel pain is 'Plantar Fasciitis"
Symptoms:
Insidious onset of pain on the bottom of the heel or arch of the foot on weight bearing; The pain is usually worse when getting up in the morning or after having been sat for a prolonged period. Tender swelling around heal. The pain decreases with a few minutes of walking as walking stretches the fascia, but pain may return after spending a long period of time on the feet.
Nonsurgical Treatment:
Stretching exercises - Calf stretches help pain & assist recovery
Avoid barefoot walking which put undue strain & stress on plantar fascia
Limit activities to give feet a rest
Wearing supportive shoes that gives good arch support & slightly raised heel reduces stress on the plantar fascia
If pain continues after several weeks, consult your GP/Foot & ankle surgeon or Physiotherapist.
When is surgery needed?
The majority of patients with plantar fasciitis respond to nonsurgical treatment, a small percentage may require surgery.
Long-Term Care:
No matter what kind of treatment one undergoes for plantar fasciitis, the underlying cause that led to it may remain. Therefore, one will need to continue with preventive measures. Wearing supportive shoes, stretching and using custom orthotic devices are the mainstay of long-term treatment for heel pain [plantar fasciitis]