Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Skokie & Whiting

Find out what’s causing your heel pain and get a plan to walk comfortably again.

What Causes Heel Pain?

The most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel is plantar fasciitis: irritation of the thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes and supports your arch.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons lists too much running or jumping, worn-out shoes and tight calf muscles among the common triggers. Other causes of heel pain include:

Heel spurs, which often show up alongside plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendon irritation at the back of the heel
Stress injuries of the heel bone
Nerve irritation
Arthritis

Signs It’s Plantar Fasciitis

The classic sign is sharp pain with your first steps in the morning or after sitting, which eases as you move and returns after long periods on your feet.

If that sounds familiar, read sharp heel pain in the morning: what it means, or our guide to calming a plantar fasciitis flare-up.

Man massaging the arch and heel of his foot

How We Treat Heel Pain

Most people with plantar fasciitis get better with conservative treatment. We start there and add more targeted care when needed.

A clear diagnosis with an exam and, if needed, in-office X-ray or ultrasound
A stretching plan for the calf and the plantar fascia
Footwear changes and custom orthotics to support the arch
Night splints for stubborn morning pain
Cortisone injections for short-term relief
Shockwave therapy and PRP injections for pain that hasn’t improved with other care

These options match the treatments described by the Mayo Clinic. Surgery is rarely needed and is considered only when pain lasts many months despite treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?

The plantar fascia tightens overnight. Your first steps stretch it suddenly, which causes the sharp pain many people with plantar fasciitis feel.

Are heel spurs the cause of heel pain?

Not usually. Many people with plantar fasciitis have a heel spur, but the spur itself is rarely what hurts.

How long does plantar fasciitis take to go away?

Many people improve within several months with consistent stretching, good shoes and orthotics. Getting care early often shortens that time.

Do orthotics help plantar fasciitis?

They can. Arch support takes strain off the plantar fascia. We’ll tell you whether a store-bought insert or custom orthotics makes sense for you.

What is shockwave therapy?

A non-surgical treatment that sends sound waves into the painful area to stimulate healing. It’s an option for long-lasting heel pain.

Insurances Accepted

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Ready to get back on your feet?

Book at our Skokie or Whiting office. Evening and weekend hours are available for new patients.

Book Appointment Call 708-747-8994