Heel pain (calcaneodynia) is a symptom that almost everyone experiences at some point. This is especially true after a long shift on your feet, a challenging workout or even just waking up one morning. But when the pain lingers or becomes more intense, it’s natural for your mind to wander to worst-case scenarios…including cancer.

Here is the reassuring truth: health pain is rarely a sign of cancer, and most people experiencing it are dealing with common, well-understood conditions. A study shared in the National Library of Medicine found that calcaneodynia is a frequent symptom among patients with foot and ankle disorders. Nevertheless, understanding why your heel hurts can give you clarity, confidence and control over your health.

What’s happening in your body

Your heel is a small area with a big job. The calcaneus (heel bone), the surrounding fat pad, tendons and nerves all absorb every step, jump and shift of your body weight. You tend to experience pain when soft tissues are damaged or irritated, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Most of the time, this pain stems from everyday mechanical strain, indicating it is not a serious issue. However, in rare cases, it can be an indicator of deep issues, including systemic disease or even tumors. The condition can significantly impact your daily life, making simple activities like walking or standing uncomfortable. What matters most is how the pain behaves.

Common causes

Like many wellness concerns, heel pain usually has a straightforward explanation. Some of the most frequent causes include:

Plantar Fasciitis

This is the most common cause of heel pain. Statistics from the Cleveland Clinic indicate that approximately two million patients are diagnosed and treated annually. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia in your foot. This condition occurs when your plantar fascia is overused or stretched beyond its limits. The good news is that you can usually treat the condition with over-the-counter medications, rest and stretching.

Achilles tendinitis

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. According to Mayo Clinic, the pain from this condition typically begins as a mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel. This is mostly a result of running or other sports activities. Like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis can be managed with at-home care under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Heel spurs

This is a bony growth on the heel bone. The Cleveland Clinic notes that heel spurs often result from calcium deposits that occur due to long-term strain on the foot. You probably won’t realize if you have a heel spur until you seek help for your heel pain. Unfortunately, this condition has no cure. Healthcare providers usually recommend non-surgical treatments to ease symptoms linked with heel spurs.

Specific causes

While most heel pain is mechanical, a few less common conditions can mimic or complicate symptoms. These specific causes include:

  • Peripheral neuropathy.
  • Heel bone or benign tumors.
  • Autoimmune arthritis.

Cancer is also in this category. It is possible, although it is infrequent. So, no need to worry. Ensure you consult your healthcare provider for screening and early detection to receive recommendations for appropriate treatment plans.

Diagnosis and treatment

If your heel pain is not improving, your healthcare provider will likely begin by gathering a detailed medical history and conducting a physical exam. Diagnostic steps often begin with X-rays, although an ultrasound or MRI may be used to evaluate deeper structures, and laboratory tests may be ordered if there is suspicion of infection or systemic inflammation.

Once diagnosed, the treatment plan typically involves physical therapy, activity modification, stretching routines and the use of ice or anti-inflammatories. While most cases improve within a few weeks (sometimes even sooner) more advanced procedures can be recommended if your doctor suspects a serious risk during early screening.

Specific diagnosis/treatment

If initial imaging reveals a mass, bone lesion or other atypical changes, your doctor will likely suggest specific follow-up steps to gather more information. These typically include an MRI to obtain detailed images of the soft tissue or a CT scan for a more thorough evaluation of the bone structure. Finally, a biopsy may be performed to confirm a diagnosis definitively.

What will a doctor do for heel pain?

Expect a step-by-step approach from your doctor. Your healthcare expert may:

  • Ask detailed questions about our symptoms and lifestyle.
  • Examine the foot, including pressure points and mobility.
  • Review your gait and footwear to spot biochemical issues.
  • Order imaging, usually X-rays.
  • Start conservative treatment.
  • Follow up to ensure improvement.

These are processes designed to identify common causes first and escalate when necessary.

What does cancerous bone pain feel like?

Cancerous bone pain has a signature pattern. It always feels like a persistent, dull ache that worsens at night or with activity. The pain can be intermittent or constant, throbbing and can be resistant to over-the-counter medications. These symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, such as sports injuries or arthritis. If you experience persistent pain, especially if it worsens at night, it is crucial to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

When to see a doctor

You should get evaluated if you have heel pain that:

  • Lasts longer than four to six weeks.
  • Gets progressively worse.
  • Appears with swelling or a lump.
  • Wakes you up at night.

Dr. Justus Rabach, MD, with a Bachelor of Clinical Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), says, “Seek professional care for heel pain that does not improve. If rest, recovery, wearing correct shoes and even taking over-the-counter pain relievers have not worked, call your doctor. Persistent pain may need a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan.”

Bottom line

Most heel pain is precisely what it seems: a common, everyday issue that responds well to simple treatments. Cancer is an infrequent cause of heel pain, and when it does occur, it presents differently and more aggressively. Still, listening to your body, noticing patterns and seeking timely care can make all the difference.

If heel pain is interfering with your day or your peace of mind, do not ignore it. A quick check-in with a healthcare professional can provide relief and clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I see a doctor or podiatrist for heel pain?

    You can start with either a primary care doctor or podiatrist, as both can evaluate heel pain. A podiatrist is often preferred for foot-specific issues or persistent symptoms.

    Where does bone cancer usually show up first?

      Primary bone cancer most often appears in large bones like the femur, tibia or pelvis. Metastatic cancers usually affect the spine, ribs or hips before smaller bones.

      How long can you have bone cancer without knowing?

        Bone cancer can go unnoticed for months or longer because symptoms are mild and nonspecific. Pain usually becomes more constant and severe as the tumor grows.

        Citations

        Dai H, Qiang M, Chen Y, Zhai W, Zhang K. Lung cancer presenting as heel pain: A case report. Oncology Letters. 2014;8(2):736-738. doi:https://doi.org/10.3892/ol.2014.2164

        Clinic C. Heel Pain: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published September 7, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/heel-pain

        Cleveland Clinic. Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published November 4, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14709-plantar-fasciitis

        Mayo Clinic. Achilles tendinitis – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Published 2018. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369020

        Cleveland Clinic. Heel Spurs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Published 2021. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21965-heel-spurs

        Anderson C. Understanding Heel Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help. Saint Joseph Health System. Published 2019. Accessed November 29, 2025. https://www.sjmed.com/blog-articles/understanding-heel-pain-causes-treatments-and-when-seek-help