Heel pain is the most common problem we treat — and one of the most fixable. Whether it’s a first-step stab under the heel in the morning or a stubborn ache at the back of the heel after sport, lasting relief starts with an accurate diagnosis of which structure is actually hurting.

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Different conditions hurt in different places. Pain under the heel usually points to plantar fasciitis, a bruised fat pad or a heel spur. Pain at the back of the heel usually points to Achilles tendinopathy or heel bursitis — or Sever’s disease in active kids.

Common causes of heel pain

  • Plantar fasciitis — Sharp under-heel pain, worst with the first steps of the morning. The most common cause of adult heel pain.
  • Heel spurs — A bony hook on the heel bone that often gets the blame — but is rarely the true source of the pain.
  • Achilles tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness at the back of the heel, common in runners, walkers and anyone ramping up activity.
  • Sever's disease — The most common cause of heel pain in active children aged roughly 8–14 — very treatable.
  • Bruised heel (fat pad pain) — Deep, bruise-like pain under the heel pad after hard surfaces, hard landings or lots of time on your feet.
  • Heel bursitis — An inflamed fluid-filled sac causing tenderness, warmth and swelling at the back of the heel.

How we treat heel pain

We work out the true source first, then combine the right tools for your feet: Sensokinetic orthotics to correct the mechanics overloading the heel, a progressive loading and stretching program, shockwave therapy for stubborn cases — and now laser therapy, available only at our Maroochydore head clinic.

No referral is needed, you can claim on the spot with HICAPS, and we treat heel pain at all six clinics across the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane — Caloundra, Maroochydore, Nambour, Noosa Heads, Taringa and Deception Bay. Find your nearest clinic or book online.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for heel pain to go away?

Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve within 6 weeks to 3 months with the right treatment plan. Stubborn or long-standing cases can take longer and often respond well to shockwave therapy. The earlier you start treatment, the faster you tend to recover.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist for heel pain?

No — you can book directly without a referral. If your GP has set up a Chronic Disease Management (CDM/EPC) plan, we can treat you under it, and you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Do you offer HICAPS and private health fund claims?

Yes. You can claim on the spot with HICAPS using your private health fund card, so you only pay the gap on the day.

Does shockwave therapy for heel pain hurt?

Most people tolerate shockwave therapy well. It can feel mildly uncomfortable during the few minutes of treatment, but there is no downtime and you can walk out and carry on with your day.

Which areas do you service for heel pain treatment?

We treat patients across the Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore, Caloundra, Noosa, Buderim, Kawana and surrounds) and Brisbane (CBD, plus northern and southern suburbs).

Do you offer laser therapy for heel pain?

Yes. We offer advanced high-intensity (Class IV) laser therapy for stubborn plantar fasciitis and Achilles pain, currently available only at our Maroochydore head clinic. It is non-invasive, comfortable and has no downtime, and works well alongside shockwave therapy, orthotics and a loading program.

Get relief for your
Heel Pain

Visit us at one of our eight locations on the Sunshine Coast or Brisbane.

Book an assessment today
Common causes of
Heel Pain