Diagnostic ultrasound can help confirm plantar fasciitis by showing fascia thickening, but therapeutic (deep‑heat) ultrasound has limited, inconsistent evidence for relieving heel pain. It may give short‑term benefit for some people but isn’t broadly recommended as a primary treatment. First‑line care emphasizes stretching, activity modification, orthotics, NSAIDs and physiotherapy; consider shockwave or injections for persistent symptoms.

Initial evaluation of heel pain is a clinical examination (palpation, gait, Windlass test). Imaging commonly starts with an X‑ray to look for fractures or heel spurs; ultrasound assesses the plantar fascia; MRI evaluates complex soft‑tissue or occult bony injuries. Blood tests may be done for suspected inflammatory or infectious causes, and nerve conduction studies if tarsal tunnel syndrome is suspected.

A "right heel lat" refers to a lateral (side) radiographic view of the right heel, showing the calcaneus and adjacent bones/soft tissues. It’s used to assess fractures, alignment, joint involvement and bone shape after trauma or for chronic heel pain. Measurements such as Böhler’s angle on this view help detect and characterize calcaneal fractures and guide treatment decisions.

Foot ultrasound visualizes soft tissues—tendons, ligaments, plantar fascia, bursae and muscles—showing tears, tendinopathy, inflammation, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, and joint effusions or synovitis. It detects neuromas, cysts, foreign bodies and fluid collections, assesses vascularity with Doppler, and allows dynamic examination and guided injections. It complements X‑ray or MRI when evaluating soft‑tissue injury, pain or swelling.

Therapeutic ultrasound can reduce pain for some musculoskeletal conditions by producing deep heating, increasing blood flow, and promoting tissue repair; it often gives modest, short-term relief. Evidence is mixed and benefits depend on condition, ultrasound settings, and treatment frequency. High-quality trials are limited, so ultrasound is commonly used alongside exercise and other therapies. Discuss suitability and risks with a healthcare professional.

Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinopathy, not uric acid. Gout — caused by uric acid crystal deposition — typically affects the big toe but can rarely involve the heel, producing sudden severe pain, redness and swelling. If you have abrupt, swollen, hot heel pain or recurrent attacks, see a doctor for tests and appropriate treatment.