Heel pain when walking can be caused by several common conditions:

• Plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot, often causes sharp heel pain especially in the morning or after rest.

• Achilles tendinitis, inflammation of the tendon connecting calf muscles to the heel, leads to pain in the back of the heel.

• Heel spurs, which are bony growths from repeated strain, can cause discomfort when walking.

• Bursitis, inflammation of cushioning sacs near the heel, may cause pain.

• Stress fractures, tiny cracks in the heel bone from repetitive impact like running, cause pain while walking.

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a nerve compression disorder, causes burning or shooting pain in the heel area that worsens with activity.

• Poor or unsupportive footwear may strain the heel and cause pain developing gradually.

If your heel hurts when you walk, it could be due to one or a combination of these causes. Consulting a healthcare professional can help diagnose the exact cause and provide appropriate treatment options.