Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is an effective, non-invasive treatment for plantar fasciitis that offers significant pain relief, promotes healing, reduces inflammation and scar tissue, and improves overall foot function leading to a faster recovery and return to daily activity.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities, like manual therapy and exercise programs, it is particularly beneficial for clients who have not responded well to other traditional treatments like rest, icing, or orthotics.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or damaged, often due to overuse, poor footwear, or biomechanical issues such as flat arches.
If you think you have plantar fasciitis and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats Plantar Fasciitis
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Promotes healing of the Plantar Fascia
- Breaks down scar tissue
- Improves function and mobility
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for Plantar Fasciitis
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis usually involves 5 to 8 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the condition.
Minimal Downtime
Clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous or
high-impact activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating plantar fasciitis, reducing the need for invasive procedures and minimising the associated risks.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions, allowing them to return to normal activities with reduced discomfort.
Enhanced Healing
By promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process, leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional treatments.
Reduced Dependence on Medication
Effective pain management through shockwave therapy can decrease the need for pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication, reducing potential side effects.
Improved Function and Mobility
As the pain, inflammation, and scar tissue decreases clients are able to return to activities that were previously painful.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating plantar fasciitis, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Severe pain is limiting function
If plantar fasciitis is causing severe pain that significantly impacts the ability to perform daily activities.
Fast recovery
For individuals with a high level of activity who need to return to their work, sport, or routine quickly.
History of condition
If there is a history of chronic plantar fasciitis or a previous recurrence.
Resistance to standard treatments
If initial traditional treatments (e.g. stretching, orthotics) are showing little to no improvement after a few weeks and the pain remains intense.
Heel spur
If plantar fasciitis is associated with heel spurs which contribute to pain.
Early intervention with shockwave therapy can promote healing of the plantar fascia, reduce pain, and prevent chronic foot pain.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
Received 6 weeks treat on shoulder and I was very pleased with the outcome, Nim gave me guidance on further work after treatment which to strengthen both shoulders next and hips.
Excellent!!!!
I first found Nim and her Shockwaves treatment in 2020 when I had severe Plantar Fasciitis in one foot - I couldn’t walk at all, it was horrendous. She had me back on my feet with Shockwaves treatment and specially made insoles.
Then last October I had a bad fall and broke two vertebrae in my upper back and damaged the surrounding muscles - I was in total agony. Thankfully I was able to see Nim, and after having Shockwaves treatment for a few weeks the pain was more or less gone. She also gave me stretching exercises etc.
I will always return to Nim whenever I need to. I say she has “magic hands” as she finds the problem immediately and her massages are second to none!
I highly recommend her as she’s also a really lovely person.
I am delighted with the results on my Dupuytren's nodule. After 5 sessions of shockwave therapy with Nim, the nodule in my hand has reduced to a fraction of its size, it is no longer painful and is not pulling my finger in. It was a massive relief to find a treatment that can be done early for this condition and without the need for invasive painful surgery, injections or radiation. Several weeks after the treatment finished it is still continuing to improve. Shockwave therapy does feels a bit strange and uncomfortable at first but you very quickly get used to it and I had no ill effects from the treatment. I can highly recommend Nim and shockwave therapy.
I’ve been seeing Nim since 2019 for various badminton-related injuries, and I can’t recommend her enough! Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but she always takes the time to explain exactly what she’s doing and why. I really appreciate her approach—she believes that the more you know, the better you can take care of yourself, and I’ve learned so much from her over the years.
Nim is also a shockwave treatment specialist, and I’ve recommended her to many of my badminton colleagues, especially those who could benefit from this particular therapy. Her friendly demeanor combined with her expertise makes every session comfortable and effective. If you’re in need of physiotherapy or considering shockwave treatment, Nim is definitely the person to see!
My Morton's Neuroma : NHS cortisone injections made no difference to my painful stiff and inflamed foot pad. I did not want surgery so found Shockwave and Nim. She gave me a very thorough examination and identified issues with my spine and hips that did not help. After a series of Shockwave treatments and advice on stretching, my right foot improved becoming soft and much less painful. I decided to have a follow up series of treatment this summer. Although not cured, compared to 2 years ago when I could not walk for more than 10 minutes if at all, I can now be on my feet wslking for hours. Plus the stretching advice and motivation has helped with my hip mobility too.