Heel Pain Assessment

Justas Muzikevicius
January 17, 2025

Sports Med U | Educating Minds, Elevating Potential

Heel pain: A practical approach

Rio, E., Mayes, S. and Cook, J., 2015. Heel pain: a practical approach. Australian Family Physician, 44(3), pp.96-101.

In today’s letter

Overview of pain around the heel/ankle and how to diagnose
A fun infographic for you to save and use in the future
Rapid Results =

Heel pain often comes from multiple structures, making differential diagnosis complex. The authors emphasise that clinical assessment (Subjective & Objective) is more reliable than imaging alone, as imaging may show incidental findings that do not correlate with the person symptoms.

3 resources to check out to further your knowledge about the ankle
Meme of the week: 1,2,3…. *Random thought - “Is it really true that people can’t lick their elbow” … Oh, um 2 more reps please

Bite-size study - Infographic style!

Aim of the study

This review considered the structures that can cause pain around the calcaneus, including the lateral and medial perimalleolar regions, the Achilles enthesis, and the proximal plantar fascia attachment.

Clinical Tip

Address the Entire Kinetic Chain
Heel pain is rarely an isolated problem—it often reflects dysfunctions within the kinetic chain. Have a look at the proximal contributors like hip and knee strength, gait mechanics, and core stability.

For example, weak gluteal muscles may alter foot biomechanics, increasing plantar fascia or Achilles tendon stress. Implement exercises targeting proximal weaknesses alongside site-specific treatments