For podiatrists, May is often the month when heel pain complaints surge especially cases of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon irritation.

If you’ve noticed your heel pain flaring up around this time of year, you’re not imagining it.

1. You’re Suddenly More Active

After a quieter winter, your feet and lower legs may not be conditioned for the increase in movement that naturally comes with spring.

Common May activity spikes include:

• Walking more frequently
• Returning to running or fitness classes
• Gardening and standing for long periods
• Weekend hikes and travel
• Sporting activities restarting

Your plantar fascia the thick band of tissue supporting your arch, doesn’t always adapt quickly to this sudden increase in load.

2. Footwear Changes Can Cause Problems

As temperatures rise, many people swap supportive winter shoes for:

• Flat sandals
• Worn-out runners
• Flip-flops
• Lightweight casual shoes

While comfortable in the short term, these styles often provide poor arch support and minimal shock absorption. This places extra strain on the heel and arch with every step.

3. Harder Ground Increases Impact

During spring and early summer, the ground becomes firmer and less forgiving compared to wetter winter months. Walking or running on harder surfaces can increase stress through the heel and Achilles tendon.

4. Old Injuries Reappear

Heel pain often builds gradually over time. You may have had mild symptoms for months that only become obvious once your activity levels increase.

Many patients tell us:

“It was only a small ache before, but now it hurts every morning.”

That classic “first-step pain” is one of the hallmark signs of plantar fasciitis.

Common Signs Your Heel Pain Needs Attention

You should consider assessment if you notice:

• Sharp pain under the heel when getting out of bed
• Pain after long periods of sitting
• Tenderness in the arch or heel
• Pain that worsens after activity
• Limping or altered walking patterns
• Tight calves or Achilles discomfort

Ignoring heel pain early can lead to compensation patterns that affect the knees, hips, and lower back.

The Most Common Causes of Heel Pain

Plantar Fasciitis

The most common cause of heel pain. This occurs when the plantar fascia becomes irritated due to overload, poor foot mechanics, or inadequate footwear.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Pain at the back of the heel caused by irritation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon.

Heel Fat Pad Irritation

The cushioning under your heel can become inflamed or thin over time, especially with prolonged standing or walking.

Biomechanical Issues

Flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, or altered gait mechanics can all increase stress through the heel.

What Actually Helps Heel Pain?

The good news is that most heel pain responds very well to early treatment.

Depending on the cause, treatment may include:

• Footwear advice
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Custom orthotics
• Shockwave therapy
• Activity modification
• Taping or offloading techniques
• Gait assessment

The earlier heel pain is addressed, the easier it is to calm down inflammation and prevent chronic symptoms.

Don’t Ignore Heel Pain This Summer

Heel pain rarely “just goes away” if the underlying cause remains untreated. Continuing to push through pain can prolong recovery and make symptoms harder to manage later in the summer.

If your heel pain is worsening this May, a podiatry assessment can help identify the cause and create a treatment plan tailored to your activity level, footwear, and foot mechanics.

Book an Assessment

If heel pain is affecting your walking, exercise, or daily comfort, our team can help you get back on your feet comfortably and confidently.

Ready to make that appointment? 

📞 01-9012009
🌐 www.southdublinpodiatry.com

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