When to see a doctor

See your doctor immediately if you have:

• Severe pain and swelling near your heel
• Inability to bend your foot downward, rise on your toes or walk normally
• Heel pain with fever, numbness or tingling in your heel
• Severe heel pain immediately after an injury

Schedule an office visit if you have:

• Heel pain that continues when you're not walking or standing
• Heel pain that 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, avoid activities that put 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 provide plenty of support. If you're an athlete, choose shoes appropriate for your sport, and replace them regularly.
• Foot supports. Heel cups or wedges that you buy in the drugstore often provide relief. Custom-made orthotics usually aren't needed for heel problems.
• Over-the-counter pain medications. Aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) can reduce inflammation and pain.