Heel Pain Treatment

What Causes Heel Pain?

Common causes of heel pain include:

• Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the thick band of tissue under the foot
• Heel Spurs – Bony outgrowths from chronic stress at the heel bone
• Achilles Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf to the heel
• Bursitis – Swelling of fluid-filled sacs in the heel
• Stress Fractures – Tiny cracks in the heel bone from repetitive force
• Nerve Entrapment or Neuroma – Compressed nerves around the heel
• Fat Pad Atrophy – Thinning of the protective fat cushion under the heel

Common Symptoms

• Sharp, stabbing pain with the first steps in the morning
• Pain after prolonged standing or walking
• Tenderness at the bottom or back of the heel
• Swelling or warmth near the heel
• Burning or tingling sensations (possible nerve involvement)

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

At SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, we begin with conservative therapies whenever possible:

???? Custom Orthotics – Redistribute pressure and support the arch
???? Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) – Stimulates tissue healing and blood flow
???? Fetal Tissue Injections & PRP – Regenerative therapies to repair microtears
???? Anti-Inflammatory Medications – Topical or oral options
???? Stretching & Strengthening Programs – Target tight calf and foot muscles
???? Heel Pads & Night Splints – Reduce pain and support the foot at rest
???? MLS Laser Therapy – Speeds up cellular healing
???? Ultrasound-Guided Injections – Cortisone or biologics delivered with precision
???? Activity Modification – Customized advice based on your lifestyle

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgery is only recommended when conservative options fail after several months. Procedures may include:

• Plantar Fascia Release
• Heel Spur Removal
• Achilles Tendon Repair
• Topaz Procedure (minimally invasive)
• Bursa Excision
• Nerve Decompression

Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to minimize downtime and scarring.

What to Expect from Treatment

• Most patients experience 80–90% relief with non-surgical care
• Treatment plans are personalized based on imaging and biomechanics
• Recovery time depends on severity but ranges from a few weeks to a few months
• We work with athletes, professionals, seniors, and everyone in between

Early intervention offers the best outcomes — don’t wait until your pain becomes disabling.

Trusted Heel Pain Specialists

We’ve helped thousands of patients across Santa Monica and Cedars-Sinai overcome chronic heel pain. Our evidence-based approach, advanced therapies, and one-on-one care ensure you’re receiving the highest level of podiatric care available.