Heel Pain & Shockwave Therapy
Heel Pain & Shockwave Therapy
Heel pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It may develop gradually without a clear injury, or appear suddenly and make walking, standing, or exercise uncomfortable. Pain can occur under the heel, at the back of the heel, or spread into the arch of the foot.
At Total Foot Health, we assess the likely cause of your heel pain before recommending treatment. This may include conservative care such as exercises and orthotics, as well as advanced options like shockwave therapy where appropriate.
What do we mean by Heel Pain and Shockwave Therapy?
Heel pain refers to discomfort felt under, around, or at the back of the heel. One of the most common causes is plantar fasciitis, which is typically associated with pain under the heel and sometimes through the arch area of the foot.
Heel pain may also be due to other causes, including:
- Stress fractures within the heel bone
- Tendonitis affecting the Achilles or surrounding structures
- Arthritis or joint inflammation
- Nerve irritation
- Less commonly, cysts or soft tissue conditions
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that may be recommended for certain causes of persistent heel pain, including plantar fasciitis. It works by stimulating blood flow and supporting the body’s natural healing processes within the affected tissue.
Why have I developed Heel Pain?
Heel pain can develop gradually, with no single injury to the affected area. In many cases, it is linked to overuse, changes in activity levels, footwear, or foot mechanics, which can place extra strain through the heel and arch.
Common contributing factors include:
- Long periods of standing or walking
- Sudden increases in activity or exercise
- Wearing unsupportive, worn, or unsuitable footwear
- Weight gain increasing load through the heel
- Reduced flexibility or strength in the foot and ankle
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or inflammatory arthritis
Heel pain can also affect active children during growth spurts, as well as runners and people who spend a lot of time on their feet. Identifying the underlying cause is important for long-term pain relief and preventing the issue from returning.
When treating heel pain, the first step is a thorough assessment to establish what is causing your symptoms and how the pain is affecting your movement and day-to-day life.
Once we have a diagnosis, we can recommend a treatment plan that is appropriate to you. This may include a combination of therapies such as:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Strapping or taping for short-term support
- Orthotics to reduce strain and improve foot function
- Manual therapy to support mobility and reduce discomfort
For persistent or more severe cases, interventions such as shockwave therapy or ultrasound-guided steroid injections can also be successful when treating heel pain and plantar fasciitis.
Our aim is to reduce pain, address the underlying cause, and help you get back to normal activity as safely and quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Heel Pain & Shockwave Therapy
What causes heel pain?
The most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which affects the band of tissue supporting your arch. Other causes include stress fractures, tendonitis, arthritis, nerve issues, or even cysts.
Can heel pain appear without an injury?
Yes. It often develops gradually due to repetitive stress, poor footwear, standing for long periods, or lifestyle changes such as increased activity or weight gain.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It’s particularly effective for chronic heel pain like plantar fasciitis.
Is shockwave therapy painful?
Most patients describe it as mildly uncomfortable but tolerable. Treatment sessions are short, and discomfort usually lessens with each visit.
How many sessions will I need?
Typically, 3 to 6 sessions are recommended for optimal results. Your podiatrist will advise based on your diagnosis and response to treatment.
Is shockwave therapy suitable for everyone?
While it’s safe for most people, it may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions. Your podiatrist will assess your individual suitability before beginning treatment.
What other treatments might be included?
You may also benefit from exercises, taping, orthotics, manual therapy, or ultrasound-guided injections depending on your condition and treatment plan.
Heel Pain Treatment Comparison
| Treatment Option | Home Remedies | Over-the-Counter Care | Podiatrist Care (TFH) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rest, ice, stretching | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Accurate diagnosis of heel pain | ✘ | Varied | ✔ |
| Custom orthotics | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Manual therapy & strapping | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Shockwave therapy | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Ultrasound-guided steroid injections | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Success rate for chronic heel pain | Low | Moderate | High |
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