Heel pain is one of the most common complaints we see at the Lower Limb Clinic in Belfast. While many people assume it's plantar fasciitis, the truth is there are over a dozen potential causes — and getting the right diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Plantar Fasciitis
The most common cause, characterised by pain under the heel that's worst with the first steps in the morning. It's caused by overloading of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Pain at the back of the heel, often worse during or after exercise. Common in runners and those who've suddenly increased their activity levels.
Heel Fat Pad Syndrome
The fat pad under your heel acts as a natural shock absorber. As we age, it can thin, leading to a deep, bruise-like pain that's worse on hard surfaces.
Calcaneal Stress Fracture
A more serious cause of heel pain, usually resulting from overtraining. The pain is typically constant and worsens with weight-bearing. This requires diagnostic imaging to confirm.
Baxter's Nerve Entrapment
A trapped nerve in the heel that can mimic plantar fasciitis. Often missed without specialist assessment, which is why accurate diagnosis matters so much.
When to See a Podiatrist in Belfast
See a specialist if:
- Your heel pain has lasted more than 2 weeks
- Pain is getting worse despite rest
- You can't walk normally because of the pain
- You notice swelling, redness, or heat around the heel
- The pain came on suddenly during sport or exercise
- Numbness or tingling accompanies the pain
How We Diagnose Heel Pain
At the Lower Limb Clinic, we use diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound as standard in our heel pain assessments. This allows us to visualise the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and surrounding structures in real-time — giving you an accurate diagnosis on the same day, without waiting for NHS imaging.
Treatment Options at Our Belfast Clinic
Once we've identified the cause, treatment may include:
- Shockwave therapy — for chronic plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy
- Custom orthotics — to correct biomechanical issues
- Injection therapy — ultrasound-guided for maximum accuracy
- Rehabilitation programme — targeted exercises for your specific condition
- Gait analysis — to identify contributing factors
Don't Wait — Get Diagnosed
The longer heel pain goes untreated, the harder it becomes to resolve. Most patients we see wish they'd come sooner. Book your heel pain assessment at the Lower Limb Clinic today.
