Achilles enthesopathy and plantar fasciitis are two common causes of posterior heel pain.

Enthesopathy refers to a disorder involving the site of attachment or insertion of ligaments, tendons, fascia, or articular capsule into bone. This site of attachment is called enthesis, and its inflammation is known as enthesopathy. It may be caused by chronic traction of the Achilles tendon on the calcaneus. Contracted or shortened calf muscles (sedentary lifestyle/obesity) and athletic overuse are other possible causes. Spondylarthropathy can also cause enthesopathy.