Are you a women suffering from Heel Pain?
Women’s footwear and heel pain
It’s no surprise—women’s feet face different challenges than men’s, particularly due to footwear choices. While this is a generalisation, men often wear more practical and comfortable shoes in the workplace, while women—especially in certain professions—may feel pressured to wear high heels or other unsupportive footwear.
Some women choose fashion over function, and that’s perfectly understandable. However, prolonged wear of ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can lead to foot pain, heel pain, and long-term structural issues. This is why we take a flexible and patient-centered approach to treatment, ensuring that solutions are both effective and practical for each individual.
Understanding heel pain in women
Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints we see at Waikato Podiatry Clinic. It can be caused by a range of conditions, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis – Inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing sharp pain in the heel, especially in the morning.
- Achilles Tendinopathy – Strain or microtears in the Achilles tendon, often worsened by high heels.
- Fat Pad Atrophy – Thinning of the natural cushioning under the heel, leading to discomfort with prolonged standing.
- Heel Spurs – Bony growths that form due to long-term strain on the heel.
The key to successful treatment lies in finding the root cause of the pain. That’s why every patient at Waikato Podiatry Clinic undergoes a comprehensive foot and lower limb assessment before beginning any treatment plan.
Treatment options for heel pain
While custom orthotics remain one of the most effective ways to treat heel pain, they are not always practical—especially for women who regularly wear heels or dress shoes. That’s why we have developed a range of alternative treatment options tailored to different lifestyles and footwear preferences.
1. Footwear consultation
One of the first things we discuss in the initial consultation is footwear choice. If a patient is open to adjusting their footwear, we can expand the treatment options significantly.
However, for those who must wear high heels or restrictive footwear, we explore other ways to reduce foot strain while maintaining their preferred style.
2. Shockwave therapy
A non-invasive treatment that stimulates the painful area with percussion waves to encourage the body’s natural healing response. This is particularly effective for chronic heel pain conditions that have not responded to traditional treatments.
3. Padding & strapping
We use specific strapping techniques to offload pressure from the heel, reducing strain and promoting healing. This is particularly useful for people who need instant relief before committing to a long-term treatment plan.
4. Custom arch support
Many women believe they can’t use arch support in high heels—but they can! At Waikato Podiatry Clinic, we create discreet, permanent arch supports that can be glued directly into footwear, including heels, dress shoes, and wedding shoes.
This allows patients to maintain their style without compromising foot health.
5. Kinesiology taping
The colorful tape seen on professional athletes isn’t just for sports injuries—it can also help stabilise and support the foot, improving posture and reducing pain.
6. Foot mobilisation & stretching programs
Stretching is one of the most effective treatments for heel pain, but it must be done correctly to be effective. We provide personalised stretching programs that target the specific muscles and tendons contributing to heel pain.
Why early treatment is crucial
Heel pain won’t resolve on its own. Ignoring it or relying on pain relief alone can lead to:
❌ Chronic pain that becomes harder to treat
❌ Compensatory issues, such as knee, hip, and lower back pain
❌ Long-term structural damage to the feet
The earlier you seek treatment, the better the long-term results. Whether you’re an office professional wearing heels daily or an active individual struggling with foot pain, we can develop a tailored solution that works for you.
Still in Pain?
Are you are feeling like you have tried everything but are still in pain?
Do you feel like you have seen every health practitioner you can about your knee and hip pain?
We have a track record of diagnosing and successfully treating cases that have previously proven difficult to resolve and we’d love to help you get back on your feet doing what you love.
Hi
My sister in law recommended Andrew Jones during my visit to New Zealand because at the time I was suffering from heel pain in my left foot.
Every morning I was limping around for a least a good half hour then would slowly start to feel better. Some days were worse than others especially after the gyming or after a run.
I have a dog which means I am constantly out walking during the days and that alone was becoming quite uncomfortable.
Now after seeing Andrew at Waikato Podiatry my heel has improved out of sight, my heel is almost back to normal and I am back to doing most exercising including golf without the heel pain. Highly recommend the shock wave treatment and Andrew Jones you are the best. 👌 👍
Thank you Claire for the lovely feedback I really appreciate you taking the time.
Its great you are doing so well .
Claire you were always 100% engaged and committed to getting better and implementing all that we discussed ,so you were a model patient and an important part of your own success .
I hope you enjoy the golf.
Perhaps we will see you on your next visit,
– Andrew Jones