When Foot Pain Isn’t Normal
Many people dismiss heel or arch pain as “just tired feet,” but ongoing pain is your body’s way of warning you that something isn’t right. Whether it’s a dull morning stiffness or sharp discomfort that worsens during the day, these symptoms can point to underlying conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or tibialis posterior dysfunction — all of which respond best to early treatment.
At Medipod Clinics, we specialise in diagnosing and treating these problems before they progress, helping you stay active and pain-free.
Understanding the Causes of Heel and Arch Pain
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that supports your arch becomes inflamed or overstretched.
Common signs include:
- Sharp pain under the heel, especially in the morning
- Discomfort after rest or long periods of standing
- Tenderness around the heel or arch
Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can alter how you walk, creating strain in your knees, hips, or lower back.
2. Tibialis Posterior Dysfunction
The tibialis posterior tendon plays a vital role in maintaining your foot’s arch and stability. Overuse, age-related wear, or injury can weaken this tendon, causing the arch to flatten over time.
You may notice:
- Pain or swelling along the inside of your ankle
- A visible flattening of the arch
- The foot rolling inward when standing or walking
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe or discomfort when walking long distances
Early diagnosis is key — when caught in its early stages, tibialis posterior dysfunction can often be managed effectively with custom orthoses, laser therapy, and targeted strengthening exercises. If left too long, it can lead to permanent changes in foot shape and function.
3. Biomechanical Imbalances
Sometimes, heel and arch pain result from the way you move. Poor foot posture, overpronation, or muscle imbalances can put excessive strain on the supporting tissues of the foot and ankle.
That’s why we use biomechanical assessment and gait analysis at Medipod Clinics to uncover the root cause — ensuring that your treatment plan not only relieves pain but restores proper function and alignment.
Treatment Options at Medipod Clinics
We combine advanced technology with clinical expertise to treat both symptoms and underlying causes:
Class IV Laser Therapy – reduces inflammation and accelerates healing- Custom Orthoses – support alignment and reduce tendon strain
- Manual Therapy & Exercise Plans – strengthen key muscles and restore balance
- Injection Therapy – for targeted pain relief in chronic cases
When to Seek Help
If your foot or ankle pain lasts longer than a few weeks, worsens with activity, or makes it difficult to walk, don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term issues and make treatment much more effective.
Persistent heel or arch pain isn’t something you have to live with — and it’s rarely “just overuse.” Whether caused by plantar fasciitis, tibialis posterior dysfunction, or a biomechanical imbalance, identifying the cause early is the best step toward lasting recovery.
At Medipod Clinics, our podiatry team uses evidence-based techniques and the latest technology to keep you comfortable, mobile, and confident on your feet.
👣 Don’t ignore your foot pain — book your assessment today and take the first step towards pain-free movement.
Thank you for reading this month’s blog – Minor Surgical Services at Medipod Clinics.
Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director, Medipod Clinics