“I thought I just had tired feet – until the heel pain wouldn’t go away.”
If you’re over 40 and spend long hours on your feet, you might be surprised at how quickly summer can turn your daily walks or weekend adventures into heel pain. Many of my patients notice that as the days get warmer, heel pain flares up – sometimes so sharply that getting out of bed in the morning feels like a challenge.
This pain often comes from plantar fasciitis, a condition where the thick band of tissue under your foot – the plantar fascia – becomes overloaded. When aged over 40, collagen is not only produced more slowly but also is less organised. This can weaken this tissue, and suddenly a simple change in your routine or footwear can push it over the edge.
Why summer? The warmer months mean more time outdoors, whether it’s walking, gardening, or standing at parties. And many of us spend more time in bare feet or switch to sandals, thongs, or unsupportive shoes that don’t cushion or support the arch. These changes place extra strain on the plantar fascia, triggering heel pain that can slow you down.
The signs are clear: a stabbing heel pain first thing in the morning, soreness after long days on your feet, or discomfort that returns despite short periods of relief. Left untreated, this can become a persistent problem, affecting your ability to stay active and enjoy daily life.
The good news? With early intervention – specific strengthening exercises, footwear guidance, and careful activity management – you can ease the pain, prevent further injury, and keep moving freely all summer long.
By Megan O’Shea
