Heel Pain Causes and Home Remedies

by Dr. Tom Lembo

Heel Pain Causes

Most heel pain is caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis.  From simple physical activities, such as walking and standing, to more strenuous weight-bearing exercises, such as dancing and jogging, the feet are constantly subjected to significant stresses. Due to their strategic location and function, the heel is vulnerable to damage, injury and pain.

One of the most common causes of heel and arch pain is overuse/ repetitive exertion with inadequately supportive shoes.

Why Is Heel Pain In The Morning Worse?

The typical symptoms of heel pain present themselves gradually. In most cases, pain is felt on the bottom of the heel. Discomfort can also extend into the arch. The pain is most intense when resuming activity after rest and tends to decrease with continued motion. This is due to the fact that the plantar fascia (the ligament that is strained in heel pain) tightens as we sleep.  When we first step down again, a shocking tight pain can be felt!

Plantar fasciitis can also worsen at the end of the day after long periods of standing or walking. Swelling, inflammation and stiffness are other symptoms that may be associated with this type of heel pain.

Side Heel Pain?  Inside Heel Pain?  Pain In The Left Heel vs. The Right?  Is It All The Same?

Plantar fasciitis most commonly causes sharp, stabbing pain right under the heel. It is most painful after the foot has been at rest.

This could be when getting up in the morning or after having been seated for a long time.  However, it is not uncommon to develop heel pain in other locations of the heel such as the outer side, the inside, or only the left or right heel.

What Is a Typical Recovery Time For Pain In My Heel?

The American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society has recommended the use of over-the-counter insoles and stretching exercises as a starting point for heel pain treatment.

According to one study performed, approximately 95 percent of women who wore over-the-counter shoe inserts and followed a simple stretching regimen experienced significant relief from heel pain in eight weeks. This illustrates what many have experienced in the past, that over-the-counter orthotic shoe inserts can be used as a highly effective first line of therapy for heel pain with positive results.

Can Heel And Arch Pain Go Away?

There are quite a few conditions that can result in heel pain and arch pain. If you can figure out what the underlying cause is, you may be able to get rid of your pain.

What is the #1 Home Remedy for Heel and Arch Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)?

Despite affecting many individuals, plantar fasciitis is not discussed frequently enough. Often associated with aging, plantar fasciitis can be severe enough to make walking difficult for anyone, regardless of age and fitness level.

For many, the solution is plantar fasciitis shoe inserts, sometimes custom-made by a podiatrist. These can cost hundreds of dollars and often limit the types of shoes one can wear.

However, nearly all cases of plantar fasciitis can be improved with over-the-counter orthotic inserts. Not only do they cost a fraction of the price, but they also come in various shapes and sizes, allowing one to retain their existing footwear.

Although it may seem too good to be true, understanding plantar fasciitis and how orthotics work reveals why a solution is possible without breaking the bank.

Why are Samurai Insoles are top choice for heel pain?

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✔️ Design: Samurai Insoles Ninjas are one of the few products on the market that are an ACTUAL ORTHOTIC that is not super rigid. This gives your feet the support they need to relieve heel and arch pain while STILL being comfortable! 

They also can be worn in nearly ANY shoe with a removable insole, giving you the flexibility of using them in many types of shoes! 

And the best part?  Because they aren't an insole made of foam and fabric, they last SO LONG!  There isn't anything to wear out, just put them under the factory insoles of a new pair of shoes and you're good to go.

✔️ Price: At $39.99 these are an absolute steal!  People routinely pay over $500 for custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis. For less than 1/10 the price, these can be nearly as good.

✔️ Amazing Return Policy/Warranty: Samurai Insoles Ninjas have a 60 day return policy. You can literally wear them for 59 days, decide they don't work for you, and send them back for a full refund. Ninjas also have a ONE YEAR WARRANTY!  No other product we reviewed even comes CLOSE to this type of guarantee.

✔️ Made in the USA: Samurai Insoles are made in an orthotic lab in the USA. The fact that an American-made orthotic can be purchased for under $40 is incredible.

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FAQ

1) What is the most common cause of heel pain?

Most heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis, irritation where the plantar fascia attaches near the heel.

2) Why is heel pain worse in the morning?

Symptoms are often worst after rest because the plantar fascia tightens overnight, so the first steps can feel sharply painful.

3) Can plantar fasciitis cause pain on the side of the heel or only one heel?

Yes. While classic plantar fasciitis pain is under the heel, it can also show up on the inside, outside, or in just the left or right heel.

4) What is a typical recovery time for heel pain?

Many people improve with conservative care. The article cites a guideline starting with over-the-counter inserts plus stretching, and a study where many improved within about 8 weeks.

5) Can heel and arch pain go away on its own?

Sometimes mild heel pain improves, but ongoing or worsening pain can become persistent if ignored.

6) What is the best home remedy for heel pain from plantar fasciitis?

A common first step is combining supportive inserts with a simple stretching routine to reduce strain and improve comfort.

7) Do I need custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis?

Not always. The article notes that many cases can improve with over-the-counter orthotic inserts, which are typically far less expensive than custom orthotics.

8) When should I get heel pain checked out?

Consider an evaluation if your pain is severe, persistent, limiting normal activity, or not improving with basic steps like support and stretching.

Whichever you choose to fight your plantar fasciitis pain, choose now!

The longer you allow plantar fasciitis pain to linger, the harder it is to get rid of, and the longer it will take!