Plantar Fasciitis

Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis – Advanced Treatment in Stoke-on-Trent & Newcastle-under-Lyme

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of chronic heel pain. It affects people of all activity levels, from runners and athletes to those who stand for long hours at work.

The plantar fascia is a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone (calcaneus) to the toes. Its primary role is to support the arch of the foot and absorb impact during walking and running.

When overstressed, irritated, or inflamed, the plantar fascia develops small micro-tears, leading to pain and stiffness.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Several factors contribute to plantar fasciitis, including:

✅ Overuse & Repetitive Strain: Common in runners, walkers, and those on their feet all day (e.g., healthcare workers, retail staff).
✅ Foot Biomechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or improper foot mechanics cause excessive strain.
✅ Tight Calf Muscles & Achilles Tendon Stiffness: Increased tension pulls on the plantar fascia, increasing stress on the heel.
✅ Poor Footwear: Shoes with inadequate arch support or cushioning lead to excess strain on the fascia.
✅ Prolonged Standing & Walking on Hard Surfaces: Common in professions requiring long hours on concrete floors.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis presents with the following key symptoms:

- Sharp, stabbing heel pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Pain along the arch of the foot, sometimes radiating towards the toes.
- Worsening pain after standing or walking for extended periods.
- Tenderness at the base of the heel, often worsening after physical activity.
- Stiffness and discomfort after long periods of inactivity (e.g., after sleep or sitting).

What is Shockwave Therapy & How Does It Help Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and break down scar tissue. It is highly effective for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis that haven’t responded to traditional treatments like orthotics, stretching, or steroid injections.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

During the treatment, a specialised device delivers acoustic shockwaves directly to the plantar fascia. These waves create a mechanical and biochemical response in the tissue, which helps:

✅ Break Down Micro-Scar Tissue – Reducing tightness & improving flexibility.
✅ Stimulate Blood Flow – Increasing oxygen & nutrients for faster healing.
✅ Reduce Inflammation – Decreasing pain & swelling.
✅ Trigger Natural Repair Mechanisms – Activating cell regeneration & collagen production.

Why Choose Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

1. Fast & Long-Lasting Pain Relief

Most patients experience noticeable pain reduction after just 1-2 sessions, with full results achieved after 3-5 treatments.

2. No Need for Surgery or Injections

Unlike corticosteroid injections or surgery, shockwave therapy is completely non-invasive and has no downtime.

3. Effective Where Other Treatments Have Failed

If stretching, orthotics, and physiotherapy exercises haven’t resolved your plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy could be the breakthrough treatment you need.

4. Minimal Side Effects & No Downtime

Most patients return to normal activity immediately after treatment, with only mild discomfort that fades quickly.

What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy at Our Stoke-on-Trent Clinics

Step 1: Assessment & Diagnosis

Our expert therapist will assess your foot biomechanics, identify the root cause of your pain, and determine if shockwave therapy is right for you.

Step 2: Application of Shockwave Therapy

The therapist will:
✔️ Apply ultrasound gel to the affected area.
✔️ Use a shockwave therapy device to deliver sound waves directly to the plantar fascia.
✔️ Treatment lasts 5-10 minutes per shockwave session, with mild discomfort (but no significant pain).

Step 3: Post-Treatment Advice & Rehabilitation Plan

Alongside shockwave therapy, we provide manual therapy, soft tissue release, and rehabilitation strategies to maximise your recovery.

How Our Clinic Can Help

At Maximum Performance Sports Therapy Injury Clinic, we specialise in treating and preventing running injuries in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme. Our experienced team offers a range of hands-on treatments, including:

Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release to alleviate tightness and improve mobility.
Shockwave Therapy & Ultrasound Therapy for pain relief and accelerated healing.
Custom Rehabilitation Programs tailored to your running goals.
Gait Analysis & Biomechanical Assessments to correct running inefficiencies.
Taping & Bracing Solutions to support injured areas and prevent further damage.

What to Expect During Treatment

Initial Consultation: Our specialists will assess your condition and discuss your symptoms.
Customised Treatment Plan including rehabilitation exercises: Based on your diagnosis, we create a personalised approach.
Ongoing Care and Monitoring: We track your progress to ensure optimal results.

If you're struggling with a plantar fasciitis injury or want to stay proactive in preventing one, book an appointment with us today. Our expert team will help you recover, strengthen, and optimise your performance—so you can keep running strong and pain-free!

What to book in for?

For a full assessment, treatment, advise, exercise plan etc... Book for a Initial Consultation & Treatment service.

Book Here