True or false: heel pain means you need new shoes

Close-up of a runner's legs and feet mid-stride on a running track

Partly true

Supportive footwear can ease plantar heel pain, especially first thing in the morning. But shoes alone rarely fix it. Building strength in the calf and foot is what helps it settle and stay settled.

What helps

  • Calf and foot strengthening, built up gradually.
  • Supportive shoes or slippers first thing in the morning.
  • Adjusting how much you walk or run for a while, rather than stopping completely.

This article is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're in pain, a Physiotherapist can assess you properly and tell you what will help.

Not sure where to start?

Tell us where it hurts and we’ll book you with the right Physiotherapist.