I believe i have a stress fracture in my heal making it painful to walk. can this heal on its own if i have to walk on it everyday? is a brace needed?

Orthopedics: I suggest getting a walking shoe or boot; however, no prolonged walking.OK to use OTC ibuprofen if not allergic and consult your treating physician.

Stress fracture ?: Difficult to say without some imaging evidence whether you have a heel fracture. If you are a runner or consistent walker it may be although its also possible that you may have a calcaneal heel spur. There are other considerations such as tendinitis or bursitis, so you really need a full examination and perhaps rest / ice /antiinflammatory with follow up imaging if not better.

Many causes: There are many causes of heel pain. It is best to get it checked to determine the cause. If you do have a stress fracture it can be made worse by continuing to walk on it. Other causes of heel pain like plantar fasciitis are also treatable but you must get the diagnosis to determine the optimal treatment.