Heel pain, especially from plantar fasciitis, can be a frustrating and persistent issue. If you're struggling with pain in your heel, you’re not alone. This FAQ guide answers the most commonly asked questions about plantar fasciitis and other causes of heel pain, providing expert advice on treatments and when to seek professional help.
At ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic in Kent & London, we specialise in non-surgical treatments for heel pain, offering personalised care to help you recover quickly.
Understanding Heel Pain
What is the cause of heel pain in one foot?
Heel pain can be caused by various conditions, but the most common is plantar fasciitis—a condition caused by inflammation, wear and tear, and repetitive injuries to the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot. This can result from excessive standing, poor footwear choices, high-impact activities, or structural foot issues such as flat feet or high arches. Other potential causes include:
Heel spurs – bony growths under the heel
Achilles tendinitis – inflammation of the Achilles tendon
Stress fractures – small cracks in the heel bone
Tarsal tunnel syndrome – nerve compression in the foot
Arthritis – particularly in older adults
💡 Need a diagnosis? Book an expert assessment at our one-stop MSK clinic
What are red flags in heel pain?
If your heel pain is accompanied by the following, seek medical attention immediately:
Severe swelling and bruising
Pain that doesn’t improve with rest
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
Fever or signs of infection
Inability to bear weight on the foot
Treating Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis
How do you treat plantar fasciitis heel pain?
The treatments for plantar fasciitis include:
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Orthotics and proper footwear
Cold therapy (icing the heel)
Anti-inflammatory medications (short-term relief)
Cortisone injections
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections (learn more)
Shockwave therapy
✅ Want quick relief? Book a consultation for a customised treatment plan at our clinic.
Can I heal plantar fasciitis on my own?
Mild cases may improve with home remedies like stretching, icing, and orthotics. However, persistent pain requires expert intervention to prevent chronic issues.
🔹 Struggling with stubborn heel pain? Get professional treatment today.
What happens if I ignore plantar fasciitis?
Ignoring plantar fasciitis can lead to:
Chronic pain that limits daily activities
Heel spurs forming due to ongoing strain
Compensatory injuries (affecting knees, hips, and lower back)
Walking & Lifestyle Adjustments
Is it OK to walk with heel pain?
Gentle walking is fine, but avoid prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces. Supportive shoes or custom orthotics can help reduce strain.
What's the worst thing you can do for plantar fasciitis?
Walking barefoot on hard floors
Wearing unsupportive footwear
Ignoring pain and continuing high-impact activities
🚶 Want to prevent future flare-ups? Learn more about proper footwear and orthotics.
Injection Therapy for Heel Pain
What injection is given for heel pain?
Cortisone injections – for acute and severe inflammation
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) – to promote healing (more info)
How long does a heel injection last?
Cortisone injections typically provide relief for several weeks to months, while PRP can have longer-lasting benefits.
Can I walk after a cortisone injection in my heel?
Yes, but you should rest for 24-48 hours after the injection to allow proper healing.
What are the side effects of heel injections?
Possible side effects after cortisone injection include temporary soreness, thinning of the fat pad, or a slight risk of infection. PRP injections generally have fewer side effects than cortisone.
🌟 Considering an injection? Find out if it’s right for you.
Ultrasound Scanning & Guided Injections
What is ultrasound scanning for heel pain?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique used to assess soft tissues in the heel, such as the plantar fascia, tendons, and ligaments. It helps detect inflammation, tears, and thickening of tissues.
Why is ultrasound-guided injection better?
Ultrasound guidance allows precise placement of medication into the affected area, increasing effectiveness while reducing complications.
Is an ultrasound scan necessary before treatment?
While not always required, an ultrasound scan ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps tailor the best treatment plan.
🔹 Want a precise diagnosis? Book an assessment and ultrasound scan today.
Take the First Step Toward Pain Relief
If heel pain is affecting your daily life, don’t wait. At ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic, we offer expert assessment and cutting-edge treatments tailored to your needs.
📅 Book your consultation today and take the first step toward pain relief!
About the Author: Dr. Mustafa Alnaib MBChB, MRCS, MSc, FEBOT is an orthopaedic surgeon, musculoskeletal doctor and Clinic Director at ACTIVATE Musculoskeletal Clinic in Kent & London
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