MLS Laser

How to Treat Heel Pain

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 08:40:15 GMT

Heel pain can be surprisingly disruptive. What may begin as a mild discomfort can quickly develop into something that affects how you walk, exercise, and go about your day. Many people find themselves adjusting their routine, avoiding certain activities, or simply pushing through the pain, often without understanding why it has developed. Over time, this can begin to affect not just your mobility, but your overall quality of life.

If you’ve been wondering why your heel is so painful or looking for ways to treat it, understanding the cause is the first step towards lasting relief. At Tennant Podiatry , we see heel pain all too often in patients, and although we understand the urge to treat it at home, we have seen time and again that the only way to truly rectify the impact it has on someone’s life is to identify the cause and create an ongoing, attainable treatment plan informed by medical professionals. So, what should you do if you are experiencing heel pain and how can we work together to treat it? We’ll start by explaining why it happens:

Why are heels vulnerable to pain?

Your heels absorb a significant amount of pressure every day. With every step, they take the impact of your body weight, acting as a natural shock absorber.

This constant load makes the heel particularly vulnerable to strain, especially when combined with:

Long periods of standing or walking
Sudden increases in activity or exercise
Hard surfaces underfoot
Unsupportive footwear
Tight calf muscles or reduced flexibility

What causes heel pain?

It’s important to understand that heel pain is usually the result of irritation or strain within the soft tissues of the foot and in many cases, it develops from a combination of factors, rather than a single identifiable cause.

The most common causes include:

Plantar fasciitis (plantar heel pain): This is the most frequent cause of heel pain. It involves irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot. Pain is often felt under the heel and may be worse in the morning or after rest.

Achilles tendon issues: Pain at the back of the heel is often linked to the Achilles tendon. This can become irritated due to overuse, tight calf muscles, or increased activity.

Heel bursitis: Inflammation of the small fluid filled sacs that cushion the heel can cause tenderness and discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied.

Heel spurs: These are small bony growths that may develop over time due to repeated strain. While not always painful themselves, they are often associated with long term stress on the foot.

Sudden increases in activity or load: A change in routine, such as starting a new exercise programme, walking more than usual, or returning to activity after rest, can overload the tissues before they have adapted.

Why do I have heel pain?

It’s very common for patients to believe that heel pain has emerged without reason, but the underlying cause is often unclear rather than unidentifiable. Heel pain, unless caused by an injury, is unlikely to appear suddenly. It develops gradually due to everyday habits and physical patterns that place repeated strain on the foot.

What we have found is that correct foot care is rarely taught and small acts of neglect build up over time, through no fault of your own. But once you identify foot and heel pain, it is vital to identify any ongoing activity that could be contributing and correct it.

You may be more likely to experience heel pain if you:

Spend long periods standing or walking, particularly on hard surfaces
Wear footwear that lacks support or structure
Have tight calf muscles, which increase tension through the heel
Have a walking pattern (gait) that places uneven pressure on the foot
Have recently increased your level of physical activity
Are carrying additional weight, increasing load through the heel
Have reduced flexibility or strength in the lower limbs

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis, sometimes referred to as plantar heel pain, is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the sole of your foot, becomes irritated or overloaded.

This tissue plays an important role in supporting your arch and absorbing shock when you walk. However, when it is placed under repeated strain, small areas of stress can develop, leading to pain and stiffness.

People with plantar fasciitis often notice:

Pain under the heel, particularly when taking the first steps in the morning
Discomfort after periods of rest
Pain that eases slightly with movement but may return later in the day
Tenderness when pressing the underside of the heel

Despite the name, it is not always a case of inflammation. In many cases, it is related to degeneration from repeated strain, which is why rest alone does not always resolve the issue.

How to reduce heel pain

If you’re looking for ways to reduce heel pain, early self care can help ease symptoms and prevent further irritation while you wait for your appointment with a podiatrist.

Begin by:

Reducing strain on the heel: Avoid activities that worsen pain, particularly high impact exercise or prolonged standing where possible.

Applying ice to the affected area: Cold therapy can help calm inflammation and provide short term relief when used regularly.

Wearing supportive, well cushioned footwear: Shoes that properly support your arch and absorb impact can significantly reduce pressure on the heel.

Using insoles or heel cushioning: These can help redistribute pressure more evenly across the foot.

Avoiding walking barefoot: Hard surfaces can increase strain on already sensitive tissues.

Incorporating gentle stretching: Stretching the calf muscles and plantar fascia can help relieve tension and improve flexibility over time.

How to treat heel pain properly

When considering how to treat heel pain, the most important factor is ensuring that treatment is appropriate for the underlying cause. What works for one person may not work for another, particularly if the source of pain differs.

Without addressing the underlying cause, symptoms may settle temporarily but are more likely to return.

Effective treatment typically involves:

A clear diagnosis: Understanding whether the pain is coming from the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, or another structure is essential for choosing the right approach.
Reducing excessive load : This may involve temporary changes to activity levels, footwear, or daily habits.
Improving foot function : Targeted exercises and support can help the foot move more efficiently and reduce strain.
Correcting biomechanical issues : In some cases, orthotics or gait advice may be recommended to improve how pressure is distributed.
Ongoing management where needed : Persistent or recurring heel pain may require structured treatment to fully resolve.

How can 3D custom orthotics help heel pain?

When heel pain is linked to how your foot moves or bears weight, providing the right support can make a significant difference. 3D custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet, based on a detailed assessment of your gait and pressure distribution.

They work by:

Redistributing pressure away from the painful area of the heel
Supporting the arch, reducing strain on the plantar fascia
Improving alignment, helping the foot function more efficiently
Absorbing shock, reducing impact with each step

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are tailored to you. This means they not only help relieve current symptoms but also address the underlying mechanical factors contributing to your heel pain.

How long is recovery for heel pain?

One of the most common concerns is how long heel pain will take to improve. Recovery can vary depending on the cause, severity, and how early treatment begins.

Mild cases may begin to improve within a few weeks with the right care but more persistent heel pain can take several months to fully settle. Longstanding or untreated pain may take longer and require more structured support. An experienced podiatrist will be able to assess the condition of your feet and provide you with a treatment plan that will give you more clarity on your healing timeline.

Is heel pain something you just have to live with?

There is a common belief that heel pain is simply part of getting older, being active, or spending long hours on your feet. In reality, this is rarely the case.

Heel pain is not something you should ignore or accept nor is it a normal part of ageing. Rest alone is often not enough to resolve the cause.

Most heel pain responds well to the right approach, particularly when it is assessed early and managed appropriately. If something doesn’t feel right, it is always worth having it checked. Addressing the issue sooner can make recovery simpler and more effective.

Why accurate diagnosis is essential for heel pain

Heel pain can feel similar regardless of the cause, but the underlying problem can vary significantly.

For example, pain under the heel may be linked to plantar fasciitis, while pain at the back of the heel may involve the Achilles tendon. Although the symptoms can overlap, the treatment approach for each is different.

Without a clear diagnosis, it is easy to use treatments that are not appropriate for your condition and delay recovery by focusing on the wrong area. A podiatrist will assess not only where the pain is, but why it has developed. This allows for effective treatment that is targeted and designed to prevent the problem from returning.

Take the first step towards lasting heel pain relief

Heel pain can affect every step you take, but with the right approach, it is often very manageable and, in many cases, fully treatable. If your symptoms are persisting, returning, or beginning to interfere with daily life, seeking professional advice can help you understand the cause and access the most effective treatment so you can return to doing the things that bring you joy without pain.

At Tennant Podiatry , our accredited podiatrists treat all foot troubles and lower limb conditions with access to state of the art facilities and a comprehensive understanding of how feet are interconnected with the rest of the body. We provide heel pain treatment with custom printed 3D orthotics designed to provide support, cushioning, and proper alignment to the foot, helping to alleviate pain and strain on the inflamed plantar fascia.

Our aim is always to make your life more comfortable through bespoke, informed treatment. Contact us today.

What is Podiatry: Why You Should Choose Podiatrists for Foot Pain

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 09:39:51 GMT

Foot pain is something many people experience throughout their lifetime and wrongly attribute to living a life on our feet; we tell ourselves it will pass, blame our shoes, say we’re tired because we’ve been standing all day for work, or assume aches are simply part of getting older. Yet, our feet carry us through every stage of life and they are designed to hold us through the day, so when something is not quite right, it can become remarkably disruptive within a short space of time.

If you’re experiencing foot pain and have come across the term ‘podiatry’ in your research, then you are likely to have questions about the role of a podiatrist and why they would be more beneficial than visiting your GP. As Podiatrists ourselves who have been treating foot and ankle pain for over 45 years, Tennant Podiatry are experts in the practice. That’s why we have explained why seeing a podiatrist is the best step you can take for yourself.

What Is Podiatry?

Podiatry is a specialised area of healthcare focused on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, hips, lower back, and legs.

Podiatrists are highly trained clinicians who understand the complex structure of the foot, a remarkable system of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Because the feet are closely connected to how the entire body moves, podiatry also considers how foot function impacts knees, hips, and posture.

Podiatry helps people:

Walk comfortably and confidently
Prevent minor problems from becoming serious
Manage long term conditions
Maintain mobility and independence at every age

What Does a Podiatrist Treat?

Podiatrists are trained to assess the health, structure, and function of the feet and how these influence the way your entire body moves.

Because the feet absorb significant pressure every day, even small imbalances can lead to discomfort, skin changes, nail problems, or strain in other joints. A podiatrist looks beyond the surface to understand why these issues occur and how to resolve them safely. We treat:

Skin and nail conditions

These are among the most common concerns, yet they can become painful or persistent without professional care. Treatment addresses the mechanical causes to prevent recurrence.

Podiatrists treat the following skin and nail conditions:

Corns and calluses caused by pressure or friction
Cracked heels and dry skin
Thickened, damaged, or fungal nails
Ingrown toenails
Verrucae and other stubborn skin lesions

Musculoskeletal pain and foot function

Foot pain is often linked to how we walk and distribute weight. Through biomechanical assessment, podiatrists can identify inefficient movement patterns and recommend targeted treatment or support for:

Heel pain, including plantar fasciitis
Arch discomfort or fatigue
Pain in the ball of the foot
Tendon or ligament strain
Flat feet or high arches affecting balance
Gait issues contributing to knee, hip, or lower back discomfort

Support for long term health conditions

Certain medical conditions require careful, ongoing foot care with regular visits. These include:

Diabetes related foot monitoring
Circulatory or nerve changes affecting sensation
Arthritis impacting joint mobility
Reduced ability to self manage nail or skin care

Injury prevention

Active individuals often benefit from podiatry even without obvious injury. We can help with early identification and management of minor symptoms to prevent them from worsening as well as footwear advice and help with pressure redistribution. Biomechanical assessments can be conducted to ensure you receive the right support as a runner or an active individual.

Why Choose a Podiatrist Instead of Self Treating?

If you have foot pain, it can be tempting to manage this from home, but pain and skin issues in the feet are almost always linked to other ongoing conditions that can cause long term damage if left unaddressed. Over the counter remedies and online advice offer temporary reprieve where a podiatrist can assess the foot in detail and offer an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

1. Accurate diagnosis

Foot pain can have many causes that look similar but require very different treatments. What feels like a simple ache may stem from joint alignment, tendon strain, or pressure imbalance. A podiatrist carefully assesses:

How you walk and stand
Your foot structure and movement
Footwear and lifestyle factors
Medical history that may influence healing

2. Treating the cause

Padding or insoles bought online may ease discomfort briefly. But without addressing the mechanical or medical reason behind the issue, pain often returns.

Podiatry focuses on long term solutions such as:

Offloading pressure points
Improving foot function
Supporting natural biomechanics
Preventing recurrence

3. Preventing problems before they escalate

Many serious foot conditions begin as small points of discomfort. Early care can prevent chronic pain and complications later down the line.

4. Care that supports your whole body

Because your feet influence alignment throughout your body, improving foot health can reduce strain elsewhere. Many patients notice improvements in balance, posture, muscle fatigue, and activity levels once their feet are functioning properly.

Who can benefit from seeing a podiatrist?

Sometimes your lifestyle or living with a long term health condition can merit visiting a podiatrist even without ongoing symptoms.

You may benefit from a podiatry consultation if you are:

On your feet for long periods at work, such as healthcare professionals, teachers, retail workers, or tradespeople.
Physically active or involved in sport where repetitive impact can lead to strain or injury.
Experiencing changes as you get older including reduced flexibility, balance concerns, or difficulty managing foot care.
Living with conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or circulation issues that require careful monitoring.
Noticing persistent hard skin, nail problems, or discomfort even if it seems minor.
Wanting to maintain mobility and independence through preventative care.
Wearing unsupportive footwear for long hours, including office based roles where posture can still affect foot function.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You do not need to wait until pain becomes severe to reach out to a podiatrist. In fact, earlier intervention does lead to more effective results. If you are experiencing any measure of pain or discomfort in your feet then it is important to see a professional as soon as you are able and get on top of the issue before it escalates.

If something is affecting how you move, it is worth having it assessed.

Consider booking an appointment if you notice:

Persistent foot or heel pain
Discomfort when walking or standing
Changes in nail shape, colour, or thickness
Hard skin that keeps returning
Pain during exercise
Reduced balance or stability
Any foot concern linked to diabetes or circulation
A problem that has not improved with home care
Repetitive impact during exercise is causing strain

What Happens During a Podiatry Appointment?

Many people feel unsure about what to expect, but podiatry visits are calm, practical, and centred on your comfort.

Your appointment typically includes:

A detailed discussion about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical background.
A clinical examination of your feet, skin, nails, and circulation.
Assessment of movement and biomechanics where needed.
Clear explanation of what is happening and why.
Personalised treatment designed to relieve discomfort and support long term health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GP referral to see a podiatrist?

No. You can book directly with a podiatrist without needing a referral. This allows you to seek help as soon as you notice a problem.

Are podiatry treatments painful?

Treatments are designed to be gentle and comfortable. Your podiatrist will explain each step and tailor care to your needs, ensuring you feel at ease throughout.

How long does an appointment take?

Appointments typically last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the concern being addressed. This allows time for a thorough assessment as well as treatment.

Will I need ongoing treatment?

Some concerns resolve quickly, while others benefit from occasional maintenance visits. Your podiatrist will recommend a personalised plan that supports your long term foot health without unnecessary appointments.

Can podiatry help if I’ve had foot pain for a long time?

Yes. Many people seek podiatry care after living with discomfort for months or even years. A detailed assessment can often identify underlying causes and provide effective relief, even for longstanding issues.

How much is a podiatry visit?

The cost of a podiatry visit will depend on the treatment you receive. Professional podiatrists will give you an accurate quote before proceeding with treatment so there are no surprises.

Take the First Step Towards Comfortable Movement

Foot pain is easy to ignore, but it is never something you simply have to live with. Addressing concerns early can prevent further strain and help you move comfortably again.

If you have noticed changes in your feet, are experiencing discomfort, have a long term health condition that impacts your joints, or would simply like reassurance about your foot health, a professional assessment can provide clarity and support. Seeking advice sooner often means simpler treatment, and a quicker return to doing the things you enjoy.

At Tennant Podiatry , our accredited podiatrists treat all foot troubles and lower limb conditions with access to state of the art facilities and a comprehensive understanding of how feet are interconnected with the rest of the body. Our aim is always to make your life more comfortable through bespoke, informed treatment. Contact us today.

Ingrown nail

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 08:35:00 GMT

Ingrown nail

Good hygiene can go a long way to preventing ingrowing toenails. Avoid moist, soggy feet by rotating your footwear so each pair has a chance to dry out thoroughly. Avoid synthetic materials and choose socks and shoes of natural fibre which fit properly. Keep your feet clean and dry and in the summer wear open-toed sandals to let air get to your toes as much as possible.

If you have diabetes, are taking steroids or are on anti-coagulants, do not attempt to cut your nails or remove an ingrowing spike of nail yourself.

When should I see a podiatrist?

You should see a podiatrist urgently if you have symptoms of infection, and have diabetes, poor circulation, or a reduced immune system. You should also visit a podiatrist if you experience any persistent pain in your toe from the ingrowing nail or have a condition that affects the nerves and/or feeling in your foot.

If you experience any foot care issues that do not resolve themselves naturally or through routine foot care within three weeks, you should seek the help of a healthcare professional.

Options available

1. We use special instruments to remove the spike (80% of the time this is all we need to do, and it does not require local anaesthetic.

2. It is a very deep spike, and we need to give you a local anaesthetic then remove it as above.

3. We need to perform a minor operation permanently removing a thin piece of the side of the nail preventing it reoccurring (5% of cases).

The longer you leave it the more likely we will need to resort to option 3.

To talk to us here about the options available regarding treatment, you can contact us here at Tennant Podiatry . We are an Accredited Practice registered with the College Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

Swift Microwave Therapy

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 09:32:25 GMT

Painful verrucae?

WHAT IS SWIFT®?

Swift is a new technology, developed in the UK, which has been licenced for the general treatment of skin lesions in Podiatry and Dermatology. Swift uses microwave energy which is delivered through a special probe applied to the skin to treat the affected tissue.

DOES IT HURT?

It is not uncommon for patients to feel a sharp sensation, similar to an injection. Unlike most treatments for verruca, pain felt during the treatment quickly subsides, and only in rare cases is there any prolonged pain.

WHAT CAN I DO AFTER TREATMENT?

In some cases the treated area may feel sore but will not prevent you undertaking normal daily activities.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

This is dependent on how you respond to treatment. In some cases, you may need more than one treatment (these can be from 14 days to over a month apart depending on the response). Your Podiatrist or Dermatologist will be able to discuss this with you.

CAN ANYONE RECEIVE THIS TREATMENT?

With a few exceptions, most people with skin lesions would be able to have this treatment. Your Podiatrist or Dermatologist will carry out an assessment prior to treatment and be able to advise you on this.

All information read here is based on Patient Information Sheets created by trained, registered Clinicians who are experienced with the product and treatment protocol. Before undergoing treatment ensure your Podiatrist or Dermatologist is registered and has given you the full range of options available.

FIT4U PRINTED ORTHOTICS - AVAILABLE NOW AT TENNANT PODIATRY

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 14:55:22 GMT

Step forward in comfort with FIT4U printed orthotics. Now available here at Tennant Podiatry.

MLS LASER

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 08:45:03 GMT

MLS LASER

How do I get rid of numbness in my feet?

Many people suffer from numbness in their feet and legs as a result of nerve damage. This uncomfortable problem is known as ‘neuropathy’ and is often referred to as ‘peripheral neuropathy’ when it affects the hands and feet. Symptoms are often numbness and/or tingling in the affected areas but may also include burning and sharp or shooting pains. Problems with balance, muscle weakness and co-ordination can also cause issues because of the way the nerves are affected. The causes of neuropathy can range from metabolic issues, medication, traumatic injury and hereditary conditions to vitamin deficiencies. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of neuropathy in the patients we see in clinic. Treating peripheral neuropathy can be tricky but there are things we can do to. Firstly, it is important to know what is causing your symptoms. This means we need to do a thorough assessment and ask lots of questions to understand what is going on and why. It may involve referring you for a blood test if we think there may be something systemic going on which needs to be identified. We will also test your circulation, sensation awareness (this won’t hurt!) and muscle strength to help us to understand better which specific parts are affected and to what extent. In our clinic we have an MLS® laser which can be a great, non-invasive, non drug option to help us treat these symptoms. For more infomation contact: info@tennantpodiatry.co.uk

Isdin Foot Care

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 11:41:01 GMT

ISDIN FOOT CARE

Isdin footcare is a new range of fantastic footcreams, now sold at the practice! We have the Ureadin Ultra 40 gel oil 40% urea which treats severlely thickened nails and skin and the Ureadin Podos 10% Urea which can repair dry cracks and moderate thickening, both of which have a luxurious none -oily gel oil texture for easy application, fast absorbing and intensive hydration which maximises the product's efficency. 97% of volunteers saw a significant improvement in their heels after 14 days of use. Long - term use prevents the return of dryness. Dermatologist and podiatrist tested.
For more information or to purchase this product please contact the practice.

New Diabetic Assessment measures circulation to the toe!

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 09:07:31 GMT

If you're struggling to get a diabetic assessment through the NHS, we now offer a NEW state of the art assessment. This includes the latest doppler ultrasound device that not only allows us to hear the health and quality of your pulse but , can also measure your circulation to your toe. This assessment is accompanied with a neurological assessment to check the feeling in your feet and importantly we test, touch, pain and vibration perceptio. Finally we can take a weight bearing 3D scan of your feet and identify any areas of your feet that need offloading - helping to prevent tissue breakdown and ulceration.

Ring now for more information

Osteoarthritis/management with our New MLS Laser!

Tue, 17 May 2022 09:04:34 GMT

Introductory offer £60 per treatment! Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. Some people call it degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis. It can occur most frequently in the hands, hips, and knees. With OA, the cartilage within a joint begins to break down and the underlying bone begins to change. These changes usually develop slowly and get worse over time. OA can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. In some cases, it also causes reduced function and disability. MLS laser can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life to sufferers.

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own (or paste your own from a different source).
To control the color or size of this text, please change the global colors or text size under the Design section from the left menu of the editor.

Class 4 MLS Laser System

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 15:06:53 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Morton's Neuroma

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 11:18:09 GMT

What is Morton's Neuroma?

Morton's Neuroma causes pain affecting the ball of the foot. It can present as a sensation of a lump, progressing into a sharp, shooting pain, sometimes with numbness and tingling. Treatment options may include Orthotics (insoles), Steroid Injections or Laser Therapy treatment. All treatment available here at Tennant Podiatry.