Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis: What to Expect
- Borders Physio
- Jan 6
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
If heel pain is stopping you from walking, working or running, shockwave therapy can be a useful option when symptoms have stuck around. Here is a clear guide to what it is, who it can help, and what a course of treatment looks like at Borders Physio in Oswestry.
What is shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy, also called ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy), uses short bursts of mechanical energy delivered to the painful area.
For plantar fasciitis this usually targets the underside of the heel where the fascia attaches to the bone. The aim is to stimulate blood flow, calm pain, and support tissue healing.
Who it can help
Shockwave is most helpful if:
Your heel pain has lasted longer than 3 months
You have tried simple measures like activity changes, calf and foot exercises, supportive footwear and gel heel cups
First line care has helped a bit but progress has stalled
If your pain is very new, you will usually get better results by starting with education, load management and a simple exercise plan. We can help you choose the right starting point.
What a session involves
Assessment
Your physiotherapist will confirm that symptoms fit plantar fasciitis and check for anything that needs a different approach.
Treatment
A small handpiece delivers pulses to the heel and surrounding fascia. You will feel a tapping sensation that can be uncomfortable at times, but you remain in control and we can adjust settings to suit you.
Aftercare and plan
We finish with advice and the next step for your exercise program. Most people walk out of the session normally.
Each appointment takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
How many sessions do I need
Most treatment plans involve 3 to 5 sessions, one per week. Some people feel improvement after the first or second visit, while others notice change more gradually over several weeks.
Does it hurt
You may feel a sharp, tapping discomfort during treatment. This is normal and usually settles quickly once the handpiece stops. Mild soreness can last up to 24 to 48 hours. Simple pain relief and relative rest usually help.
What to do after treatment
Keep walking and day to day activity comfortable
Avoid heavy impact or long runs for 48 hours
Continue your calf and plantar fascia exercises as advised
Use supportive shoes or a small gel heel cup if helpful
Are there side effects or reasons to avoid it
Common short term effects include temporary redness or tenderness. Shockwave is not suitable if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinning medication without medical clearance, have a local infection or have had a recent steroid injection to the heel. We screen all patients before starting.
How quickly will it work
Some feel easier within 1 to 2 sessions. For many, change builds over 4 to 6 weeks as exercises progress.
Is it covered by insurance
Many private insurers cover ESWT for plantar fasciitis. Check your policy or ask us for help with authorisation.
Do I need imaging first
Not usually. A good clinical assessment is enough. We can arrange imaging if your symptoms are unusual or not improving.
How does shockwave compare with other options
Exercise and load management remain first line and are part of every plan
Insoles or taping can reduce strain on the fascia while you recover
Injections may help some patients but are not first choice for many
Surgery is rarely needed and only considered after good conservative care
In short, shockwave is an add-on for stubborn cases, not a stand-alone cure. The best results come when it is combined with a simple, progressive exercise program.
Simple starter exercises
Calf stretch against wall
Stand with the sore heel behind you, knee straight, heel on the floor. Lean forwards until you feel a stretch in the calf. Hold 20 to 30 seconds, repeat 3 times.
Towel scrunches
Sitting in a chair, place a towel on the floor and scrunch it with your toes. 1 to 2 minutes at an easy effort.
Calf raises
Rise onto the balls of your feet, then lower slowly. Start both legs together for 10 to 15 reps. Progress to single leg as comfort allows.
If pain increases, reduce the range or volume and build up again.
Ready to take the next step?
If heel pain is not shifting, our clinicians can assess you and advise whether shockwave therapy is appropriate right now.
We will build a plan that fits your goals and day to day life.
Call 07540 635388 or email enquiries@bordersphysio.com
We can assess your training load, technique and strength, and tailor a plan to suit your goals.