What does a podiatrist do for heel pain?

A podiatrist evaluates heel pain through a comprehensive examination including medical history, physical assessment, X-rays, and sometimes ultrasound to diagnose conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and stress fractures. At Balance Foot & Ankle, treatment options include custom orthotics, physical therapy, cortisone injections, shockwave therapy, laser therapy, PRP, and surgery for refractory cases.

Is heel pain serious enough to see a podiatrist?

Yes, persistent heel pain that does not resolve within 2 weeks with rest and over-the-counter remedies warrants podiatric evaluation. Untreated plantar fasciitis can progress to chronic pain, heel spur formation, and altered gait that strains knees and hips. At Balance Foot & Ankle, early evaluation and treatment leads to faster, more complete recovery than waiting for heel pain to worsen.

What is the most common cause of heel pain?

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, accounting for approximately 80% of cases. It causes stabbing heel pain that is worst with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Other common causes include heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and stress fractures. Balance Foot & Ankle accurately diagnoses your heel pain to ensure you receive the right treatment.

How long does heel pain treatment take at Balance Foot & Ankle?

Most patients with plantar fasciitis see significant improvement within 6-8 weeks of consistent treatment, which may include custom orthotics, physical therapy exercises, night splints, and cortisone injections for stubborn cases. Shockwave therapy or PRP are effective for chronic cases lasting more than 3 months. Surgery is rarely needed — fewer than 5% of cases require operative intervention.

Can custom orthotics permanently fix heel pain?

Custom orthotics from Balance Foot & Ankle significantly reduce plantar fasciitis and heel pain by correcting the mechanical causes of overloading the plantar fascia. While orthotics are highly effective for long-term management, combining them with calf stretching, strengthening, and appropriate footwear provides the best long-term outcomes. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule a heel pain evaluation at our Howell or Bloomfield Hills offices.

How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?

With proper treatment, most cases improve within 6-12 weeks. Options include custom orthotics, stretching, physical therapy, and injections. For persistent cases, Dr. Biernacki offers shockwave therapy and minimally invasive procedures with 90%+ success rates.

What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists specialize in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They diagnose and treat heel pain, bunions and hammertoes, tendon injuries, nerve conditions (Morton's neuroma, neuropathy), toenail disorders, skin conditions (warts, calluses, ulcers), fractures, sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, ankle instability, and perform foot and ankle surgery. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM AACFAS serve Howell, Bloomfield Hills, and surrounding Michigan communities.

How often should a healthy person see a podiatrist?

Annual foot exams are beneficial if you are over 60, are an active runner or athlete, have diabetes, have a family history of foot problems, or notice any changes in foot shape, nail appearance, or skin texture. Preventive visits catch problems early — before bunions require surgery or a small nail issue becomes an infection.

Can foot problems cause knee, hip, or back pain?

Yes — the foot is the foundation of the kinetic chain. Overpronation causes the tibia to internally rotate, increasing stress on the knee and altering hip alignment. High arches transmit shock poorly, overloading the ankle and knee. Custom orthotics that correct foot mechanics frequently improve knee, hip, and back symptoms — one of the most underappreciated benefits of podiatric care.

When should I see a podiatrist versus an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot, ankle, and lower leg — making them the most experienced providers for most foot and ankle conditions. For foot and ankle surgery, a DPM with high case volume is appropriate. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle procedures. Call (810) 206-1402.

Heel Pain Podiatrist 2026: Causes & Treatment

Quick answer: Heel Pain Podiatrist has multiple potential causes including mechanical, neurological, vascular, and inflammatory. The patterns we see most often are overuse, poorly-fitted shoes, and biomechanical imbalance. Red flags requiring urgent evaluation: warmth/redness (infection), inability to bear weight (fracture), and unilateral swelling without injury (DVT). Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

Quick Answer

Heel Pain Podiatrist relates to plantar fasciitis — typically caused by tight calves and arch overload. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Hills: (810) 206-1402.

Video by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Michigan Foot Doctors — Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Updated April 2026

⭐ 4.9 stars · 1,123+ Google Reviews · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon (FACFAS) · Same-Day Appointments Available

Heel Pain Podiatrist in Howell & Bloomfield

Heel Pain Podiatrist Treatment (Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spur Foot Doctors)

Do you have heel pain? Plantar Fasciitis or a Heel Spur? Our podiatrists & foot doctors can help with your bottom of the foot pain!

Do you have heel pain or bottom of the foot pain that is not getting better?
We perform a full biomechanical exam & gait analysis to get to the root cause of the problem.
We also have advanced imaging like X-rays and Ultrasound.
Our podiatrists & foot doctors are also trained in advanced treatments not available as most clinics!

So DON’T WAIT. Set up an appointment to fix your heel pain TODAY!

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Why See a Podiatrist or Foot Doctor for Heel Pain?

You should see a podiatrist or foot doctor for your heel pain because we can offer advanced imaging, advanced biomechanical analysis, and advanced treatment options that other doctors don’t offer!

Causes of Heel Pain:

Plantar Fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciosis.
Calcaneal Heel Spur Syndrome.
Calcaneal Heel Bursitis.
Calcaneal Heel Nerve Entrapment.
Baxter’s Nerve Syndrome.
Arthritis of the Heel.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
Heel Fracture or Stress Fracture.
Flexor Tendonitis.
Flexor Tendinosis.
Insertional Achilles Tendonitis.

As you can see, there are many different causes of heel pain!

Diagnosis may involve advanced imaging like X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans.

Schedule Your Appointment Now – Simple, Fast, and Stress-Free

Ready to get expert heel pain treatment?
Book an appointment at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Howell, Michigan. Our welcoming team is here to help you step back into comfort and confidence.

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Heel Pain Causes: Picture & Photo Gallery

Look:

One of the top causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This is damage to a ligament that holds your heel to your toes.
Another root cause of heel pain has flat feet.
There are also photos of heel spurs that can occur to the bottom of your heel (plantar fascia insertion) and the back of your heel (Achilles tendon insertion).
Baxter’s nerve entrapment can also happen at the bottom of the heel.
An underlying cause is an overpronated flatfoot or an over a supinated high arched foot.
A plantar fibroma is a thick nodule that can occur within your plantar fascia ligament and contribute to plantar fasciitis.
This can lead to the formation of a heel stress fracture( AKA calcaneus stress fracture.)

Please click on the gallery for a guided tour through heel pain conditions!

Top 5 heel pain treatment options $plantar fasciitis heel spur stress fracture$ plantar fasciitis heel spur stress fracture

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Plantar fasciitis nerve pain heel

Heel nerve pain

Baxter’s nerve entrapment pinched nerve heel pain

Best plantar fasciitis insoles and inserts

plantar fascial fibromatosis

plantar fibromatosis treatment

plantar fibroma treatment

plantar fibromatosis treatment

Bottom of heel hurts plantar fasciitis

Bottom and back of the heel spurs

Bottom of the heel spur plantar fasciitis spur

Plantar heel spur heel pain

Flat foot vs. high arch foot pain

Heel pain fat pad

normal fat pad

Fat pad atrophy heel pain plantar fasciitis 2

Flat foot overpronation heel pain

plantar fasciitis injury pain

Flat foot heel pain plantar fasciitis

Flat foot pain flat feet

Heel fat pad cushion atrophy and heel spur formation

Achilles tendonitis insertional heel spur surgery recovery time

Achilles Tendon Tear From chronic achilles tendonitis

Calcaneus Bone Spur Bottom of the heel spur

Arthritis In Heel Of Foot: Causes & Best Home Treatment 2020!

Painful back of the heel spur Achilles tendonitis.

pronated vs. supinated heel pain

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Gait Analysis & Biomechanical Analysis:

Podiatrists & foot doctors are trained, biomechanical experts.
We have the ability to quickly perform a biomechanical exam and see where you are tight, sore, or injured.
We look for the root cause of your heel pain as well as the TRUE diagnosis.
Don’t keep wasting your time on the WRONG diagnosis & WRONG treatment!

Advanced Heel Pain Treatment

Some advanced heel pain treatment options include:

Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy.
Prolotherapy.
Heel Spur Steroid Injections.
Amniotic Injection Therapy.
Shockwave Therapy.
Percutaneous Micro-tenotomy (deep needling).
Percutaneous Plantar Fasciotomy.
Heel Spur Surgery.
Traumeel Therapy
Botox Therapy
Custom Orthotics.
Prefabricated orthotics.

Some of these treatments we use frequently, others we use less frequently!

The real key is getting the proper diagnosis through advanced imaging and then a great biomechanical analysis!

Areas We Provide Heel Pain Treatment

The podiatrists & foot doctors of Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists are available for in office visits, home care and telehealth for the following locations:

Bloomfield Hills Michigan
Bloomfield Michigan Area
Lathrup Village Michigan
Northville Michigan Area
South Lyon Michigan Area
Southfield Michigan
Troy Michigan
Novi Michigan Area
West Bloomfield Michigan Area
But anyone in the state of Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Heel Pain

Get the answers you need by exploring our most frequently asked questions about visiting our Michigan foot and ankle care offices. Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to support you every step of the way!

What causes heel pain?

Heel pain can result from several conditions, but the most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Other causes may include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, bursitis, stress fractures, or nerve irritation.

How do I know if my heel pain is plantar fasciitis?

If you experience sharp, stabbing pain in your heel—especially with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest—you may have plantar fasciitis. However, only a proper examination by a podiatrist can confirm the exact cause of your heel pain.

When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?

You should consult a podiatrist if your heel pain persists for more than a week, worsens over time, or interferes with your daily activities. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from becoming chronic or more difficult to treat.

What are the treatment options for heel pain?

Treatment depends on the cause but may include:

Custom orthotics or shoe inserts
Stretching and physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications
Cortisone injections
Night splints
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
In severe or persistent cases, surgery

Can heel pain go away on its own?

Mild heel pain may improve with rest, proper footwear, and stretching. However, ignoring the symptoms can lead to chronic pain or further complications. It’s always best to have a podiatrist evaluate the issue early on.

How can I prevent heel pain from coming back?

Prevention tips include:

Wearing supportive shoes
Using custom orthotics
Avoiding barefoot walking on hard surfaces
Regular stretching of the calves and plantar fascia
Maintaining a healthy weight
Replacing worn-out footwear

Is surgery ever necessary for heel pain?

Surgery is typically a last resort when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Dr. Tom Biernacki offers minimally invasive options and will discuss all available treatments to find what’s best for you.

How can Dr. Tom Biernacki help with heel pain?

Dr. Biernacki provides a full spectrum of heel pain treatments tailored to your specific condition. From accurate diagnosis and advanced imaging to custom orthotics and modern therapies, his goal is to get you back on your feet—pain-free and active.

Related Treatment Guides

Medical References & Sources

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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.

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(810) 206-1402

Heel Pain Making Every Step Difficult?

Our podiatrists treat plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Achilles tendonitis with proven therapies including shockwave therapy, custom orthotics, and regenerative medicine.

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Clinical References

Riddle DL, et al. “Risk factors for plantar fasciitis: a matched case-control study.” Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2003;85(5):872-877.
Thomas JL, et al. “The diagnosis and treatment of heel pain: a clinical practice guideline.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. 2010;49(3 Suppl):S1-S19.
DiGiovanni BF, et al. “Tissue-specific plantar fascia-stretching exercise enhances outcomes in patients with chronic heel pain.” Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2003;85(7):1270-1277.

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Related Conditions & Treatments

Learn about plantar fasciitis treatment, custom orthotics, and MLS laser therapy for heel pain.

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views and almost 1 million subscribers on youtube.