Is my "back-of-heel" pain actually plantar fasciitis?

That kind of sharp, back-of-heel pain, especially when you first step out of bed or after sitting for a while, is often linked to Achilles Tendinopathy or Retrocalcaneal Bursitis, not classic Plantar Fasciitis. While PF pain usually sits under the heel or arch, pain higher up or around the outer heel suggests inflammation where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone or in the small fluid-filled sac (bursa) nearby. Tight calf muscles, overuse, or flat or high arches can all make it worse.

Custom insoles can make a big difference by correcting the mechanics that cause the strain in the first place. Upstep’s custom orthotics are designed to support your arch, stabilize your heel, and can even include slight heel lifts to ease tension on the Achilles. That targeted support helps reduce inflammation, improve comfort, and stop the pain from spreading to other areas like your ankle or lower back.