Why It Might Be Making Things Worse
You bought a high-tech percussion massager (or Theragun) hoping it would finally beat your chronic heel pain.
So, why does using it directly on your heel often make your pain feel worse the next day?
You’re asking the right question. When you have heel pain (most often Plantar Fasciitis), using the massager on the wrong spot can actually worsen the problem. Read on for Wayne Foot & Ankle Center’s guide to using your percussion massager effectively.
Why Attacking the Heel Directly Fails
When you have Plantar Fasciitis, the pain is caused by inflammation and micro-tearing where the plantar fascia ligament attaches to the heel bone.
- When you use a massage gun directly on that point, you are applying intense force to an already injured and inflamed area.
- You are not “breaking up the pain”; you are irritating the insertion point, which can actually worsen the inflammation and delay healing.
It feels good in the moment…but the pain returns later!
The True Culprit: The Calf and Achilles
Heel pain is almost never just a heel problem. The root cause is usually tension pulling on the foot from above.
- Tight Calves: A tight calf muscle pulls on the Achilles tendon.
- Achilles Tendon: The Achilles tendon is connected to the back of the heel bone.
- Heel Bone: The heel bone is where the plantar fascia attaches.
When your calf is tight, it creates a chain reaction that puts massive strain on the plantar fascia. The key to relieving your heel pain isn’t in your heel; it’s in your calf.
Your 3-Step Treatment Plan (Where to Actually Use the Massager)
Use your percussion massager on the muscle group above your heel pain to reduce the pulling tension.
- Calf Muscle Belly: Spend 60-90 seconds running the massager over the thickest part of your calf muscle (the gastrocnemius and soleus). This reduces the tension pulling on the Achilles, which immediately relieves pressure on your heel.
- Achilles Tendon (Gentle): You can gently treat the sides of the Achilles tendon, but avoid pressing directly on the bone. Focus on the muscle connection just above the tendon.
- Arch (Gentle Rolling): If your arch is sore, use a softer head attachment and gently roll the massager under the arch to stimulate blood flow, but avoid prolonged pressure in one spot.
When the Tool Isn’t Enough
A massage gun is a great tool for managing muscle tension. However, it cannot fix a chronic, structural problem. If you have been doing this routine for weeks and the pain persists, it’s a sign that you need a professional solution.
A chronic heel problem requires a podiatrist to fix the underlying mechanics. This often involves both gait analysis (determining why your foot is collapsing or overpronating) and custom orthotics, which can permanently offload pressure.
We Can Help!
Don’t let your expensive gadget be a source of frustration. Use it correctly for relief, but if the pain persists, schedule an appointment. We’ll find the structural cause and provide the definitive fix.
Questions? Concerns? Dr. Lindsey Calligaro at Wayne Foot & Ankle Center is happy to assist. Our team has the tools, techniques, and proven expertise to treat your feet. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
