Back to Blog

Why Your Achilles Pain Is Worse at the Heel

Insertional Achilles tendinopathy is a common cause of pain at the back of the heel, occurring where the Achilles tendon attaches directly to the heel bone. This condition can make walking, climbing stairs, running, and even wearing certain shoes uncomfortable.Unlike mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy, insertional tendinopathy involves compressive and tensile stress at the tendon–bone interface. Over time, repetitive loading may lead to tendon degeneration, microtearing, calcification, or bone ...

Why Your Achilles Pain Isn’t Healing

Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of pain at the back of the heel, particularly among runners, active adults, and individuals who spend long periods on their feet. The condition develops when the Achilles tendon becomes overloaded, leading to collagen breakdown, tendon thickening, and reduced capacity to tolerate everyday movement.Many people assume Achilles pain is simply inflammation. In reality, mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy is typically a degenerative condition — m...

Toe Pain Isn’t Normal—Here’s What’s Actually Causing It

Toe pain can be deceptively disruptive. The toes are small, but they are essential for balance, stability, and propulsion. During walking and running, the toes stabilise the forefoot, assist with weight transfer, and provide a firm lever for push-off. When toe joints, tendons, or bones are irritated or misaligned, even simple activities—standing at work, wearing shoes, climbing stairs, can become uncomfortable.Toe conditions often worsen gradually. A mild deformity can become rigid. A “small...

Common Nail Conditions and Effective Treatment

Toenails serve a protective function for the toes, helping to shield sensitive tissues beneath them and assist with stability during walking. However, because the feet encounter constant pressure, moisture, and trauma risk, toenails are particularly prone to infection, deformity, thickening, and ingrown irritation. Nail problems can lead to pain in footwear, sensitivity when walking, cosmetic changes, and in some cases infection requiring prompt intervention.At Foot Foundation, our podiatrists p...

How to Manage Foot Skin Conditions Effectively

The skin of the foot endures continuous pressure, friction, sweat, and environmental exposure every day. These demands make it vulnerable to a wide range of skin conditions, from thickened, painful calluses to fungal infections, viral warts, cracked heels, and inflammatory skin disorders.While some conditions appear minor at first, untreated skin problems can progress, leading to discomfort, reduced mobility, and even increased infection risk.At Foot Foundation, our podiatrists specialise in ide...

What Causes Midfoot Pain and When to Seek Help

The midfoot forms the central section of the foot and plays a pivotal role in stability, shock absorption, and load transfer. Structurally, it comprises the navicular, cuboid, and three cuneiform bones, which join to the forefoot through the Lisfranc joint complex. This region supports the medial arch and acts as a rigid lever during propulsion, making it essential for efficient walking and running mechanics.Because of its central function, the midfoot endures considerable stress during daily ac...

What Causes Leg Pain and How It’s Treated

The legs play a crucial role in supporting body weight, maintaining balance, and enabling movement. They allow us to walk, run, jump, climb, and move through everyday life. Because the legs absorb force repeatedly, they are particularly vulnerable to both acute injuries and overuse conditions.From shin splints in runners to stress fractures in high-demand athletes, leg pain can quickly limit mobility and reduce performance if not managed correctly.At Foot Foundation, our podiatrists and physioth...

Common Knee Conditions and Their True Causes

The knee joint is one of the most heavily loaded and mechanically demanding joints in the human body. With every step, jump, squat, and change of direction, the knee absorbs and transfers force between the upper and lower body. Because of this constant stress, it is particularly susceptible to overuse injuries, tendon disorders, and degenerative changes over time.While knee pain is often assumed to originate solely within the knee itself, this is rarely the full picture. Foot mechanics, hip cont...

Why Hip and Back Pain Often Starts at the Feet

Hip and back pain are often viewed as issues unrelated to the feet. However, the body functions as a connected kinetic chain, meaning that movement patterns in one area can significantly influence another. The feet are the foundation of this chain the point where the body interacts with the ground. Any inefficiency, imbalance, or abnormal foot posture can transmit stress upward through the ankle, knee, hip, and spine.Flat feet, excessive pronation, high arches, or asymmetrical gait patterns can ...

Common Causes of Heel Pain Explained

Heel pain is one of the most frequent reasons people seek podiatry care. The heel plays a crucial role in absorbing impact, stabilising the foot, and supporting the entire body during standing, walking, and running. Because of this continuous demand, the heel is highly susceptible to overuse injuries, tendon-related problems, and structural conditions that can become debilitating if left untreated.At Foot Foundation, our clinicians specialise in diagnosing and treating all forms of heel pain. Us...

General Foot Pain Causes and Treatment Options

Foot pain is one of the most widespread musculoskeletal complaints and can affect people at any stage of life. The foot is an intricate and highly functional structure containing 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Because of this complexity, pain can arise from a wide range of tissues — from nerves and tendons to joints, soft tissue, or even the skin.Many people try to manage foot pain on their own, often assuming it will simply “go away,” but untreated...

What Causes Arch Pain and How to Treat It

The arch of the foot is a sophisticated structure made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and connective tissue working together to provide stability, shock absorption, and efficient movement. It acts like a spring, helping the body transition smoothly from heel strike to toe-off.When the arch becomes too low, too high, or structurally unstable, the foot’s mechanics begin to change. Over time, this can lead to arch pain, altered walking patterns, and an increased risk of injuries throughout the ...

What Drives Ankle Pain and How to Prevent It

The ankle is a highly complex joint that plays an essential role in movement, balance, and weight-bearing. It must withstand constant force, adapt to uneven surfaces, and provide stability with every step. Because of these demanding responsibilities, the ankle is particularly prone to injury and degenerative change.Whether caused by a sudden sports incident, repetitive strain, chronic instability, arthritis, or tendon dysfunction, ankle pain can significantly impact mobility, daily comfort, and ...

Why Forefoot Pain Happens and How to Fix It

The forefoot is a highly functional region of the foot, responsible for balance, propulsion, and efficient push-off during walking and running. It includes the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints that connect them to the midfoot. Because this area bears significant load with every step, it is particularly vulnerable to mechanical stress, structural deformity, and nerve irritation.Forefoot pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels, often limiting mobility, changing the way a p...

Why Achilles Pain Develops and When to Seek Care

The Achilles tendon plays a pivotal role in almost every lower-limb movement. As the strongest tendon in the human body, it connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and allows the foot to push off the ground with power and precision. Yet, despite its strength, the Achilles tendon is also one of the most frequently injured structures.High daily loads, repetitive strain, and sudden bursts of activity make it particularly vulnerable, especially for walkers, runners, and people with demanding occu...

Cold Laser Treatment for Fungal Nail Infections (Lunula Laser)

At Foot Foundation, we are passionate about providing the most advanced, evidence-based treatments to restore foot health and confidence. Since opening in 2020, our clinics in Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton have led the way in offering innovative podiatric care. One of our most popular and effective solutions for fungal nail infections is the Lunula Cold Laser — a non-invasive, pain-free treatment designed to help patients achieve clearer, healthier nails without medication or downtime.How Lu...

Introducing Cameron Collins: Your Trusted Foot Physio and Podiatrist

At Foot Foundation, stepping confidently towards better foot health begins with introducing our Lead Clinician and Co-Director, Cameron Collins. With dual qualifications as a Physiotherapist and Podiatrist, Cameron is uniquely positioned to offer comprehensive care for foot and ankle conditions. His practice spans across Auckland and Hamilton, providing patients with expert, evidence-based treatment for a range of issues. His expertise in both the biomechanical and rehabilitation aspects enables...

Expert Ingrown Toenail Surgery At Foot Foundation

When it comes to painful ingrown toenails, many have tried home remedies, but sometimes the solution requires professional care. At Foot Foundation, we have the expertise to help you step confidently without discomfort. An ingrown toenail might seem like a small issue, but left untreated, it can lead to significant pain and infection. Here, we explore what ingrown toenail surgery involves, why it might be necessary, and the benefits of reaching out for expert help....

Finding The Best Podiatrist In Auckland For You

Searching for a trusted podiatrist in Auckland can feel overwhelming, but it's crucial for keeping your feet in top condition.The right podiatrist not only treats problems as they arise but also helps prevent them. At Foot Foundation, we've taken years to hone our skills and techniques, ensuring your feet are cared for with precision.Living in Auckland means having access to some of the top professionals in podiatry, who continually update practices to incorporate the latest methods. Whether you...

What Is A Ritchie Brace And Who Is It For

Step confidently into the world of the Ritchie Brace—a remarkable solution for foot and ankle support. Whether you're dealing with posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), chronic ankle instability, or other common ailments like arthritis, understanding how this brace functions can make all the difference in your journey to improved mobility. Specially crafted with a custom foot orthotic base and hinged ankle supports, the Ritchie Brace is a cutting-edge therapy designed to stabilise your f...

EXO-L Ankle Brace: Advanced Protection & Support for Your Ankles

What is the EXO-L Brace?The EXO-L ankle brace is a revolutionary medical device designed to prevent ankle sprains while allowing you to move naturally. Unlike bulky supports or restrictive taping, the EXO-L is a custom-made external ligament that mimics the function of your own ankle ligaments. This provides maximum protection without limiting performance – making it popular among athletes, active individuals, and people prone to recurrent ankle injuries.At Foot Foundation, we are proud to be ...

Understanding Fungal Nail Infections and Effective Treatments

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, occur when fungi enter and grow within the nail. This condition commonly affects toenails and is characterized by discolouration, thickening, and brittleness of the nail. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, making public swimming pools and locker rooms potential risk areas for contraction. It's important to differentiate a fungal nail infection from other nail conditions such as psoriasis or trauma. At Foot Foundation, understanding thes...

Progressive Loading for Achilles Tendinopathy: The Gold Standard in Recovery

Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of heel and calf pain, particularly in runners, footballers, and active individuals. If you’ve experienced morning stiffness, pain during or after activity, or tenderness along the tendon, you may already know how disruptive this condition can be.The good news? Research consistently shows that progressive loading is the most effective, evidence-based treatment for Achilles tendinopathy. At Foot Foundation (with clinics in Auckland, Hamilto...

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Relief for Heel Pain

Foot Foundation, your trusted foot care clinic, is here to provide insights into one of the most common causes of heel pain: plantar fasciitis. Operating since 2020, Foot Foundation focuses on practical solutions for your foot health concerns. If you're an active adult or an everyday walker experiencing persistent heel pain, especially in the mornings or after resting, this blog post aims to educate you about plantar fasciitis. Understanding this condition is the first step to recovery and can s...

Self-Management Strategies for Plantar Heel Pain

Self-Management Strategies for Plantar Heel Pain Plantar heel pain — often linked to conditions like plantar fasciitis — is one of the most common causes of foot pain. It can feel like a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel when you first step out of bed in the morning or after long periods of sitting.The good news? While professional assessment is always recommended, there are several self-management strategies you can start at home to relieve symptoms and support recovery. At Foot Foundation...