Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis — pain in the band of tissue along the underside of the foot, particularly painful with the first steps in the morning. Other causes include Achilles problems, fat-pad bruising, stress fractures and nerve-related symptoms. We assess and treat heel pain through physiotherapy at all three clinics, with podiatry input available at our Melton clinic where orthotics or footwear changes are part of the plan, and shockwave therapy available where appropriate. To book, call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
For general public information, see healthdirect Australia's physical activity guidance.
Common causes of heel pain
- Plantar fasciitis — the most common cause; typically painful first steps in the morning, eased with movement, worsened by prolonged standing
- Achilles tendinopathy (insertional or mid-portion)
- Fat-pad atrophy or bruising
- Calcaneal stress fracture
- Nerve-related causes (e.g. tarsal tunnel syndrome)
- Sever's disease in children
- Heel pain from systemic conditions (less common)
What a first appointment may involve
- History — pattern of pain, activity, footwear, prior episodes.
- Examination — foot and lower-limb movement, strength, specific tests for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
- Discussion — likely cause, whether imaging or specialist input would change the plan.
- Plan — usually exercise, footwear advice, taping or orthotics where appropriate, possible shockwave.
Treatment may include
- Calf-strengthening and plantar-fascia loading exercises
- Manual therapy where appropriate
- Taping
- Footwear advice
- Orthotic prescription (via podiatry at Melton)
- Shockwave therapy for selected presentations that haven't responded to initial care
- Activity modification
- Coordination with podiatry and/or specialists where indicated
Plantar fasciitis often takes several months to resolve fully. We discuss realistic timeframes at the first appointment.
Locations
Heel pain physiotherapy is available at all three clinics. Podiatry-focused care (orthotics, biomechanical input) is offered at our Melton clinic.
- Melton — 7/211–223 Barries Road, Melton West.
- Hoppers Crossing — 369 Morris Road, Hoppers Crossing.
- Sunbury — 16-18 O'Shanassy Street, Sunbury (by appointment).
Funding and payment options
- Private health insurance — HICAPS on-site for on-the-spot claiming.
- Medicare EPC / Chronic Disease Management — eligible patients with a GP plan.
- WorkCover, TAC, NDIS, DVA — where eligible.
- Private payment — accepted. Contact reception for current fees.
Funding eligibility depends on your circumstances, referral, claim approval and appointment type. Please contact reception if unsure.
Frequently asked questions
How long does plantar fasciitis take to settle?
Often weeks to months. Some cases resolve within 6–8 weeks; others take 6 months or longer. Outcomes depend on the individual.
Do I need orthotics?
Not always — orthotics are one tool among several. Calf-strengthening and footwear changes often do as much. If orthotics are appropriate, our Melton clinic offers podiatry.
Will shockwave fix my heel pain?
Shockwave is one option for selected presentations that haven't responded to initial conservative care. Outcomes vary.
Should I get an MRI for heel pain?
Usually not initially. Imaging is appropriate when a stress fracture, neuropathic source or other specific diagnosis needs confirmation.
Ready to book?
Call (03) 9746 6852 or book online.
Related: foot & ankle physio · podiatry in Melton · shockwave therapy · all services
Reviewed by Joseph Louka, AHPRA-registered Physiotherapist · Last reviewed 2026-05-29.
