What plantar fasciitis is
That sharp pain under your heel with your first steps in the morning is a classic sign of plantar fasciitis — irritation of the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) running along the bottom of your foot. It’s one of the most common causes of heel pain and tends to affect people who spend long periods on their feet, runners, and people who’ve recently changed their activity levels or footwear.
Why it can be so stubborn
Plantar fasciitis often develops gradually and can become a persistent, nagging issue if the underlying load on the fascia isn’t addressed. Rest alone sometimes isn’t enough, since the pain frequently returns once you’re back on your feet.
How shockwave therapy fits into treatment
Shockwave therapy is often considered for plantar fasciitis that hasn’t responded to initial conservative treatment — things like stretching, footwear changes, and load management. Delivered by our AHPRA-registered physiotherapists, shockwave therapy aims to stimulate the tissue’s healing response, and is typically combined with:
- A structured calf and foot strengthening program
- Stretching for the calf and plantar fascia
- Advice on footwear and, where relevant, temporary activity modification
- Load management to reduce ongoing irritation while the tissue settles
What to expect during and after treatment
Sessions are relatively quick, and most people describe the sensation as a firm tapping under the foot. Some tenderness for a day or so afterwards is common. A course of several sessions, spaced roughly a week apart, is typical, with results building gradually rather than all at once.
Quick tip
Supportive, well-fitted footwear can make a noticeable difference while your plantar fascia is settling — ask your physiotherapist for specific recommendations for your foot type.
Getting back to full activity
Recovery timeframes vary from person to person, depending on how long you’ve had symptoms and how consistently you follow your rehab program. Your physiotherapist will help you gradually return to walking, standing or running as your symptoms allow, rather than pushing through pain.
Morning heel pain that keeps coming back is a sign it’s worth having properly assessed, not just stretched through.
The role of footwear and surfaces
The surfaces you regularly walk or stand on, along with the support your footwear provides, can meaningfully affect how your plantar fascia copes with daily load. Your physiotherapist may suggest specific footwear features or temporary changes to your routine while your foot recovers.
For people whose work involves long periods of standing, simple changes like anti-fatigue mats or more supportive footwear can make a noticeable difference alongside your treatment plan.
Preventing plantar fasciitis from returning
Once symptoms have settled, maintaining calf and foot strength, along with sensible footwear choices, can help reduce the likelihood of plantar fasciitis recurring down the track.
Stretching as part of your daily routine
Alongside shockwave therapy, simple calf and plantar fascia stretches done consistently each day can support your recovery. Your physiotherapist will show you the specific stretches most relevant to your presentation.
Learn more from independent sources: healthdirect Australia. Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individualised advice from a registered health practitioner.
Information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individualised advice from a registered health practitioner. Our practitioners are registered with AHPRA.