You are currently using an outdated browser. For the best viewing experience, please upgrade your browser here.

Heel pain treatment starts with identifying the exact cause of your symptoms, whether it is under the heel, at the back of the heel or related to surrounding structures. At Your Foot Clinic, we assess how your foot moves, what is contributing to the pain and develop a treatment plan suited to your activity and lifestyle.

If heel pain is affecting your walking, work or exercise, early assessment can help prevent it from becoming more persistent.

To develop an effective treatment plan, we begin with a detailed assessment.

This typically includes:

  • Understanding when and where the pain occurs
  • Reviewing activity levels and recent changes
  • Looking at footwear and wear patterns
  • Assessing foot posture, movement and lower limb function

From there, we identify the likely cause of the heel pain and explain your treatment options clearly.

Our goal is to reduce stress on the heel, improve movement and help you return to normal activity as safely as possible.

You can book an appointment at our Ferntree Gully or Doncaster East clinic.

Heel pain can have several causes. The most common include the following, although other conditions may also be involved depending on the individual.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.

Symptoms often include pain under the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest.

Contributing factors may include:

  • Foot posture and biomechanics
  • Increased activity or load
  • Footwear that lacks support
  • Tight calf muscles

You can learn more about plantar fasciitis treatment and how it is managed.

Heel Spur

A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel. It is often found alongside plantar fasciitis but is not always the direct cause of pain.

Many people have a heel spur without symptoms, so assessment is important to determine what is actually contributing to discomfort.

Achilles Tendon Pathologies

Pain at the back of the heel is often linked to the Achilles tendon.

This may be due to:

  • Increased load from running or sport
  • Tight calf muscles
  • Changes in activity levels

Conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy or irritation around the tendon can cause ongoing discomfort if not managed correctly.

Sever’s Disease (Children’s Heel Pain)

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in active children and adolescents.

It is typically linked to growth, activity levels and tension from the Achilles tendon.

If your child is experiencing heel pain, our children’s podiatrist service can help assess and manage the condition.

How to Treat Heel Pain

Treatment depends on the cause, severity and how long the symptoms have been present.

Our approach focuses on three key stages.

Reducing Pain and Irritation

Early management may include:

  • Activity modification
  • Stretching of the calf and foot
  • Taping or support
  • Advice on managing load and daily activity

Addressing the Cause

Once symptoms settle, treatment focuses on the underlying issue.

This may include:

Supporting Long-Term Recovery

For ongoing support and prevention, treatment may include:

  • Orthotics where suitable
  • Strengthening programs
  • Load management strategies
  • Advice for returning to sport or activity

The aim is to reduce strain on the heel while improving overall foot function.

Why Choose Your Foot Clinic?

Patients choose Your Foot Clinic for heel pain treatment because we focus on:

  • Clear diagnosis rather than guesswork
  • Treatment tailored to the individual
  • Support for all ages and activity levels
  • Practical advice for footwear and movement
  • Long-term management, not just short-term relief

We provide care from both our Ferntree Gully and Doncaster East clinics, making it easier to access treatment when you need it.

Book an Appointment

If you are experiencing heel pain, early assessment can help identify the cause and guide the right treatment.

Book your appointment online today:
Book an Appointment

Or call: 03 9753 6222

Frequently Asked Questions About Heel Pain Treatment

When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?

Consider booking an assessment if heel pain is affecting walking, work or exercise, continues to return, lasts more than a few weeks or is particularly painful during your first steps after rest.

Is all heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis?

No. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause, but heel pain may also relate to the Achilles tendon, heel fat pad, bursae, footwear, activity load or growth-related conditions such as Sever’s disease in children.

What happens during a heel pain assessment?

Your podiatrist will discuss your symptoms and activity history, review your footwear, examine the painful area and assess your foot posture, movement and lower limb function. These findings help guide an appropriate treatment plan.

Will I need orthotics for heel pain?

Not everyone with heel pain needs orthotics. They may be considered when foot mechanics or pressure distribution are contributing to symptoms, but recommendations should follow an individual assessment.

How long does heel pain treatment take?

Recovery time varies depending on the cause, how long symptoms have been present, activity demands and response to treatment. Your podiatrist can explain the expected treatment pathway after assessing your condition.

Do I need a referral for heel pain treatment?

A referral is generally not required for a private podiatry appointment. A referral or supporting documentation may be needed for some Medicare, Department of Veterans’ Affairs or other funded care arrangements.

Do you treat heel pain in children?

Yes. Children’s heel pain may be linked to growth and activity, including Sever’s disease. Assessment can help determine the cause and guide footwear, activity and treatment recommendations.

Where can I book heel pain treatment?

Heel pain assessments are available at Your Foot Clinic in Ferntree Gully or Doncaster East. Appointments can be booked online or by calling 03 9753 6222.