Do Your Heels Hurt When You Walk?

Heel pain is very common. It can happen to anyone. Maybe your foot hurts when you wake up. Or maybe walking at work makes your heel sore.

If that sounds like you, don’t worry. There are ways to feel better. And the best part? You don’t have to go far.

Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a trusted Heel Pain Doctor in Arizona. He helps people in Scottsdale, AZ, and beyond feel better every day. Let’s look at seven easy ways that can help your heels hurt less—starting today!

Wear Shoes That Support Your Feet

Shoes that are flat or old can make your heels worse. You need shoes with:

• A strong heel
• Soft cushion under your foot
• Good arch support

Your shoes should hold your foot in place. If your foot moves too much, it can stretch your heel and cause pain.

Use Ice to Reduce Swelling

When your foot hurts, it may be swollen. Ice can help make the swelling go down. Here’s how to use it:

• Wrap ice in a towel
• Place it on your heel for 15–20 minutes
• Do this 2–3 times a day

Never place ice directly on your skin.

Stretch Your Feet Every Day

Tight muscles can pull on your heel. That makes the pain worse. Stretching your foot and calf can help.

Try this easy stretch:

• Sit in a chair
• Place your leg straight in front of you
• Gently pull your toes toward you
• Hold for 10 seconds
• Repeat 3 times for each foot

Stretch in the morning and before bed for best results.

Try Shoe Inserts (Orthotics)

Shoe inserts give your foot extra support. They take pressure off your heel. Some are soft. Others are firm.

You can find them at the store, or you can get custom inserts from a foot doctor like Dr. DiNucci. Custom ones fit your feet best.

Research shows custom orthotics improve pain in 90% of plantar fasciitis cases. Source: Journal of Foot and Ankle Research

Avoid Standing Too Long

If you stand a lot for work or school, your heel can hurt more. Try to:

• Sit down for short breaks
• Shift your weight from one foot to the other
• Wear soft shoes if you stand on hard floors

If you can, use a rubber mat under your feet.

Rest When You Need To

Don’t ignore the pain. Your heel needs time to heal. If it hurts after walking, take a break.

Put your feet up when you can. Resting helps reduce swelling and gives your foot time to recover.

Ask About Shockwave Therapy

This is a treatment that uses sound waves to help the tissue heal. It is safe and often works well.

Dr. DiNucci may recommend this if other treatments don’t work. People often feel better in just a few weeks.

Studies show shockwave therapy helps 60–80% of patients with long-term heel pain.

Meet Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, Heel Pain Doctor in Arizona

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we want you to feel better. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is a skilled and caring foot surgeon.

He helps people with heel pain, ankle injuries, and more. Our office in Scottsdale, AZ is easy to find and always ready to help.

The staff here is friendly and kind. They’ll answer all your questions. We believe that when you understand your foot care, you can make the best choices for your health.

Here’s What We Offer

• One-on-one visits with Dr. DiNucci
• X-rays and tests done right in the office
• A warm and welcoming space
• Options for surgery or non-surgery care
• Help with insurance and appointments

If you need help, just visit our Contact Us page or Request an Appointment.

FAQs

When should I see a heel pain doctor?

If your pain lasts more than 2 weeks, or it gets worse, see a doctor. Don’t wait.

Is heel pain serious?

It can be. If you don’t treat it early, it can last a long time. The sooner you get help, the better.

Will I need surgery?

Not always. Most people get better with rest, ice, inserts, and stretches. Surgery is only used if other treatments don’t work.

In Summary

Heel pain doesn’t have to stop you. With the right care, you can walk without pain again. Start by:

• Wearing better shoes
• Using ice and rest
• Trying inserts and stretches
• Asking about advanced treatments like shockwave therapy

Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, a top Heel Pain Doctor in Arizona, is here to help. Our team at the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona is ready to care for you.

Contact us today to learn more or book an appointment. Let’s help you take the first step toward pain-free feet!