When to see a doctor

By Mayo Clinic Staff

See your health care provider right away for:

  • Severe heel pain right after an injury.
  • Severe pain and swelling near the heel.
  • Not being able to bend the foot downward, rise on toes or walk as usual.
  • Have heel pain with fever, numbness or tingling in the heel.

Schedule an office visit if:

  • There's heel pain even when not walking or standing.
  • Heel pain lasts more than a few weeks, even after you've tried rest, ice and other home treatments.

Self-care

Heel pain often goes away on its own with home care. For heel pain that isn't severe, try the following:

  • Rest. If possible, don't do anything that puts stress on your heels, such as running, standing for long periods or walking on hard surfaces.
  • Ice. Place an ice pack or bag of frozen peas on your heel for 15 to 20 minutes three times a day.
  • New shoes. Be sure your shoes fit properly and give plenty of support. If you're an athlete, choose shoes that are designed for your sport. Replace them regularly.
  • Foot supports. Heel cups or wedges that you buy without a prescription often give relief. Custom-made orthotics usually aren't needed for heel problems.
  • Pain medicines. Medicines you can get without a prescription can help relieve pain. These include aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others).

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April 05, 2023

See also

  1. Reactive arthritis
  2. Sever's disease