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Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

If heel pain is stopping you from getting through your day, you’re not alone, and you’re probably not sure whether it will ever fully go away. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons people search for shockwave therapy, and it’s one of the conditions we evaluate most often at Optimal Family Chiropractic.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot connecting your heel to your toes. It typically causes a sharp, stabbing pain near the heel, often worst with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while.

Rest, stretching, and standard treatments help many people, but for others, the pain lingers for months or even years despite trying everything they’ve been told to do.

Why Shockwave Therapy Helps

Shockwave therapy uses acoustic (sound) waves to stimulate your body’s own repair response in the treated area. For plantar fasciitis specifically, this means targeting the inflamed or degenerated tissue in the plantar fascia to help kickstart healing that may have stalled on its own.

At Optimal Family Chiropractic, we use SoftWave, a broad-focused shockwave technology that can reach the plantar fascia at depth without requiring the exact point of pain to be pinpointed first, which is helpful since plantar fasciitis pain can shift or feel diffuse across the heel and arch.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Heel Pain?

Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis may be worth considering if you’ve experienced:

  • Heel pain that’s lasted more than a few weeks
  • Pain that’s worst with your first steps in the morning
  • Limited or no relief from rest and stretching
  • Pain that flares up after standing or walking
  • Frustration with ongoing discomfort affecting daily life

Every case is different, and a Discovery Session is the best way to find out whether shockwave therapy is a good fit for your specific situation.

What Treatment Feels Like

Sessions typically start away from the area of pain so you can get a feel for the sensation, which is similar to a light tapping. As treatment moves over the plantar fascia, the sensation increases, and many patients compare it to a deep tissue massage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions does plantar fasciitis usually need?

For an acute case, most patients need 4-6 treatments. Chronic, long-standing plantar fasciitis typically needs 8-10 sessions.

How long does a session take?

About 4-6 minutes.

Will I need to stop activity during treatment?

Most patients continue normal daily activity during their treatment plan. Your specific recommendations will depend on the severity of your case.

Is shockwave therapy safe for plantar fasciitis?

Yes. You may experience some stiffness or an increase in discomfort for about 24 hours after your first treatment.

Who shouldn’t have shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis?

Patients with pacemakers cannot receive this therapy. It also can’t be done within 21 days of a cortisone shot, or if you’re currently on blood thinners.

How much does treatment cost?

Cost depends on your condition and treatment plan, generally ranging from $500 to about $1,500 for a package. We offer a $79 Discovery Session to evaluate your specific case first.

Offering a $79 Discovery Session

Wondering if shockwave therapy could relieve your heel pain? Take advantage of our Discovery Session for just $79!

Get Your Life Back

Put pain in your past and get back on your feet. Call today to book an appointment with Dr. Wilson. CONTACT US »

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Optimal Family Chiropractic | (405) 242-4911