Heel Pain in Gisborne: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Podiatrist

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons people book in to see us at Emerge Podiatry — and it affects everyone from runners and tradies to parents and retirees.

For some, it’s a sharp pain first thing in the morning. For others, it creeps in after sport, long days on their feet, or changes in footwear. The good news? Most heel pain can be treated effectively once the cause is properly identified.

Below, we’ll break down the most common causes of heel pain, what actually helps, and when it’s time to see a podiatrist.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Plantar Fasciitis (Plantar Heel Pain)

This is by far the most common cause of heel pain.

It usually presents as:

• Sharp or stabbing pain under the heel

• Worse with the first few steps in the morning

• Pain that eases as you “warm up”, then returns later in the day

It’s caused by overload of the plantar fascia — a strong band of tissue supporting the arch of your foot.

Heel Fat Pad Irritation

Some people describe heel pain as feeling like they’re “walking on a bruise”.

This can occur when:

• Cushioning under the heel thins or shifts

• Footwear lacks shock absorption

• There’s been a sudden increase in time spent standing or walking

Achilles Tendon–Related Pain

Pain at the back of the heel may be linked to the Achilles tendon.

Common triggers include:

• Sudden increases in running or walking

• Hill training

• Stiff calves

• Poor footwear support

Stress Injuries

Less common, but important not to miss — especially in active people.

Heel stress injuries may present as:

• Pain that worsens the more you load it

• Localised tenderness

• Pain that doesn’t “warm up”

These require early assessment to prevent worsening.

What Makes Heel Pain Worse?

• Walking barefoot on hard floors

• Worn-out or unsupportive shoes

• Sudden increases in activity

• Tight calves

• Ignoring early symptoms and “pushing through”

What Actually Helps Heel Pain?

While every case is different, effective treatment often includes:

• Proper diagnosis (this is the key step)

• Footwear advice tailored to your lifestyle

• Targeted exercises (not generic Google stretches)

• Load management — modifying activity without stopping everything

• Orthotics, when appropriate (not everyone needs them)

At Emerge Podiatry, we focus on addressing why the pain started — not just settling symptoms temporarily.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You should book an appointment if:

• Heel pain has lasted more than 2–3 weeks

• It’s affecting your ability to exercise or work

• Pain is getting worse, not better

• You’ve tried rest and new shoes with no improvement

• You’re returning to sport and want to avoid flare-ups

Early treatment usually means faster recovery and fewer long-term issues.

Heel Pain Treatment in Gisborne

At Emerge Podiatry, we treat heel pain across all ages and activity levels — from weekend warriors to people who spend long days on their feet.

We take the time to:

• Assess how your foot moves

• Look at your footwear and activity demands

• Create a clear, realistic plan to get you moving comfortably again

📍 Located in Gisborne📅 Appointments available for both sports and general podiatry care

Book online or contact the clinic to get started.