This could be due to Plantar Fascitis,caused by the following: Foot arch problems (both flat feet and high arches) Obesity or sudden weight gain Long-distance running, especially running downhill or on uneven surfaces Sudden weight gain Tight Achilles tendon (the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel) Shoes with poor arch support or soft sole ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++AND Treatment: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and inflammation Heel stretching exercises Resting as much as possible for at least a week Wearing shoes with good support and cushions Other steps to relieve pain include: Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice a day for 10 - 15 minutes, more often in the first couple of days. Try wearing a heel cup, felt pads in the heel area, or shoe inserts. Use night splints to stretch the injured fascia and allow it to heal. If these treatments do not work, your doctor may recommend: Wearing a boot cast, which looks like a ski boot, for 3-6 weeks. It can be removed for bathing. Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics) Steroid shots or injections into the heel In a few patients, nonsurgical treatment does not work. Surgery to release the tight tissue becomes necessary.