Heel pain has many different causes, with each cause or condition presenting itself in different ways throughout the foot and heel. Podiatrists, or doctors who are specialized in foot care, can provide a diagnosis for the cause of the heel pain based on their patient’s symptoms, a physical exam, and where needed, additional testing such as x-ray’s. Common causes of heel pain include:

- Plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the fibrous band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. When these tissues are overloaded or overstretched, small tears can form, particularly where the tissue joins the heel bone.

- Heel spurs are a growth of bone where the plantar fascia and heel bone connect, causing this abnormal formation.

- Bursitis is an inflammation of the sac lining the joints, which allows the muscles and tendons to easily move along with the joint and is felt on the back or underside of the heel.

- Pump bump is common in women who wear high heels, or pumps, and forms an abnormal growth of bone on the back of the heel from the pressure of the shoes.

- Achilles’ tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which runs along the back of the heel and ankle.

- In most cases, heel injuries are the result of overuse, improper fitting or worn-out shoes, obesity, jumping and other causes related to wear and tear on the feet.

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to an individual's unique foot structure and biomechanics. The process of making custom orthotics begins with a thorough assessment by a podiatrist, who examines the patient's feet, gait, and overall posture. This assessment often includes taking a detailed medical history and discussing any specific foot pain or issues the patient may be experiencing. Advanced diagnostic tools such as 3D scanners or impression molds are used to capture an accurate representation of the foot's shape and contours.

Once the foot impressions are obtained, they are sent to a specialized lab where the custom orthotics are crafted. The orthotics are made from high-quality materials and are designed to provide optimal support, alignment, and cushioning based on the individual's needs. When the custom orthotics are ready, the patient returns to the podiatrist's office for a fitting. The podiatrist ensures that the orthotics fit properly within the patient's shoes and makes any necessary adjustments for comfort and effectiveness. Regular follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor the orthotics' performance and make further adjustments if needed.