Why Do My Heels Hurt in the Morning?

Waking up with sharp pain in your heel as soon as you start the day can be worrying. Our patients describe it as “walking on glass” or a stabbing ache that usually improves once they start moving. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone — heel pain is one of the most common foot problems we see at our podiatry clinic in Folkestone, Kent.

In this article, we’ll explain:

• The most common causes of heel pain in the morning.

• When to seek professional help.

• How a podiatrist can diagnose and treat heel pain effectively.

  
  

Common Causes of Heel Pain in the Morning

1. Plantar Fasciitis

The leading cause of morning heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This condition happens when the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed.

• Pain is usually worst with your first steps in the morning.

• It can also return after sitting or standing for long periods.

  
  

2. Heel Spurs

Sometimes a bony growth (spur) forms on the heel bone. While not always painful on its own, it can contribute to discomfort, especially alongside plantar fasciitis.

3. Achilles Tendinitis

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can cause pain at the back of the heel, which may feel worse in the morning or after exercise.

4. Your Anatomy

Foot shape and how its balanced to the ground plays a big role. If you have flat feet or very high arches, your heel and surrounding tissues may be under extra strain.

5. Lifestyle Factors

• Unsupportive shoes.

• Sudden increases in activity (common in runners).

• Standing for long hours at work.

• Weight gain

• Injury

  
  

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

While some mild heel pain may improve with rest, if your discomfort:

• Persists for more than 2 weeks,

• Interferes with walking or exercise,

• Is worse in the morning or after rest,

…it’s time to seek professional help. A podiatrist can identify the exact cause and create a tailored treatment plan to relieve your pain and prevent it coming back.

How We Treat Heel Pain at FootHouse, Kent

At FootHouse Podiatry Clinic in Folkestone, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heel pain. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

• Gait Analysis – assessing how you walk to spot biomechanical issues.

• Bespoke Orthotics – custom insoles to support your feet and reduce strain.

• Omega Laser Therapy – an advanced treatment for reducing inflammation and speeding up healing.

• Exercise & Stretching Plans – to strengthen supporting muscles and maintain joint mobility.

• Footwear Advice – making sure your shoes help, not harm, your recovery.

  
  

Don’t Put Up With Heel Pain

Heel pain in the morning isn’t just “part of getting older” — it’s usually a treatable condition. The sooner you seek help, the faster you can get back to walking comfortably.

If you’re struggling with heel pain, book an appointment with our podiatry team in Folkestone, Kent today. We’ll help you find the cause and get you back on your feet.