Heel Pain Treatment in New Canaan, CT
Heel pain is one of the most common complaints that brings patients to a podiatrist — and for good reason. As the largest bone in the foot, the heel bears the full weight of your body with every step. When heel pain strikes, it can make even basic activities like getting out of bed or walking to the kitchen feel nearly impossible.
At New Canaan Podiatry, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Jennifer Tauber, DPM, specializes in diagnosing and treating all forms of heel pain. Whether your pain strikes first thing in the morning, worsens throughout the day, or has been nagging you for months, we can identify the cause and get you back on your feet — comfortably.
Book OnlineCommon Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can originate from a variety of conditions. The most frequently encountered causes at New Canaan Podiatry include:
- Plantar fasciitis — The leading cause of heel pain; inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot
- Heel spurs — Bony growths on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis — Inflammation of the Achilles tendon where it attaches to the heel bone
- Bursitis — Inflammation of the retrocalcaneal bursa at the back of the heel
- Stress fractures — Tiny cracks in the heel bone from repetitive impact
- Peripheral neuropathy — Nerve damage causing burning, tingling, or stabbing heel pain
- Arthritis — Including gout, which can cause sudden, severe heel pain
- Fibromyalgia and other systemic conditions
When to See a Podiatrist for Heel Pain
Many people try to walk through heel pain or treat it on their own — but when home remedies like rest and ice are not providing adequate relief, it is time to see Dr. Tauber. Schedule an evaluation if you experience:
- Heel pain that persists for more than a few weeks
- Pain that is severe or occurs when you are not standing
- Swelling, bruising, or visible changes around the heel
- Pain that is worsening over time
- Heel pain accompanied by numbness or tingling
Heel Pain Treatment Options
Dr. Tauber will examine your heel and may use digital X-rays or diagnostic ultrasound to identify the source of your pain. Treatment is tailored to your diagnosis:
- Rest and activity modification — Reducing impact activities while healing
- Custom orthotics — To correct biomechanical imbalances and relieve heel pressure
- Stretching and physical therapy — Targeted exercises to reduce tension in the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon
- Night splints — To maintain gentle stretch while sleeping
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) — To reduce pain and swelling
- Corticosteroid injections — For targeted relief of severe inflammation
- MLS Laser Therapy — Non-invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing
- Acoustic Wave Therapy — Effective for chronic plantar fasciitis and heel spur pain
- Surgery — Minimally invasive procedures to release the plantar fascia or remove heel spurs when conservative care is not sufficient
Do not let heel pain keep slowing you down. Call New Canaan Podiatry at (203) 548-7688 or book your evaluation online. Also see: plantar fasciitis, custom orthotics, tendonitis.
Heel Pain FAQs
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
Morning heel pain is the classic hallmark of plantar fasciitis. During sleep, the plantar fascia tightens. The first steps of the day force it to stretch suddenly, causing sharp pain at the heel. The pain typically improves after a few minutes of walking as the tissue warms up.
What is the fastest way to relieve heel pain?
Initial home measures include rest, ice (15–20 minutes several times a day), gentle stretching of the calf and plantar fascia, and wearing supportive footwear at all times — even around the house. For persistent pain, professional treatment from Dr. Tauber including orthotics, injections, or laser therapy can provide much faster and more lasting relief.
Can heel pain go away on its own?
Mild heel pain sometimes resolves with rest and conservative home care. However, without addressing the underlying cause, it frequently recurs or worsens. Plantar fasciitis that is not treated properly can become a chronic condition lasting months to years.
Are heel spurs the same as plantar fasciitis?
No, though they are often related. A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone that typically forms as a response to the chronic tension of plantar fasciitis. Not all heel spurs cause pain, and not all plantar fasciitis is associated with heel spurs.
Should I avoid exercise if my heel hurts?
High-impact activities like running and jumping should be reduced or avoided until your heel pain is properly evaluated and treated. Lower-impact activities like swimming or cycling are often fine to continue. Dr. Tauber will advise you on safe activity modifications based on your diagnosis.
What type of shoes help with heel pain?
Shoes with good arch support, cushioned heel padding, and a slight heel elevation help reduce stress on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Avoid flat, unsupportive shoes like flip-flops and ballet flats. Custom orthotics added to supportive footwear provide the most targeted relief.
Can I get a cortisone shot for heel pain?
Yes. Corticosteroid injections can be a very effective option for providing rapid relief from severe plantar fasciitis pain. Dr. Tauber performs these in-office and may use ultrasound guidance for greater precision. Injections are typically used in combination with other treatments for best results.