What does plantar fasciitis feel like?

Plantar fasciitis typically causes a sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel, worst with the first steps after waking or after long periods of sitting. The pain often improves with movement but returns after prolonged standing or activity. Some people also feel a deep ache along the arch of the foot.

Does shockwave therapy work for plantar fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy is one of the more effective non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis. It uses focused acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia. Most patients undergo three to six sessions spaced a week apart. Research supports its effectiveness, particularly for cases that have not responded to other conservative treatments.

Can orthotics help with plantar fasciitis?

Custom orthotics can address foot mechanics that contribute to plantar fasciitis, such as overpronation or high arches. They distribute pressure more evenly across the foot and support the plantar fascia during weight-bearing activities. Over-the-counter insoles may provide temporary relief but do not address individual biomechanics.

How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?

Most cases improve within two to six months with consistent treatment including shockwave therapy, orthotics, stretching, and activity modification. Factors like severity, how long you have had symptoms, activity level, and adherence to the care plan all affect recovery time. Chronic cases may take longer.

Can plantar fasciitis come back?

Yes, recurrence is possible if the underlying contributing factors are not addressed. Continuing to wear supportive footwear, maintaining calf and foot flexibility, using orthotics if prescribed, and avoiding sudden increases in activity can reduce the risk of recurrence.

Plantar Fasciitis Assessment & Treatment

Understanding plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. It supports the arch and absorbs impact during walking and running. Plantar fasciitis develops when this tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, usually at the point where it attaches to the heel bone. The condition is common among runners, people who stand for long periods, and those with certain foot mechanics. Not all heel pain is plantar fasciitis, so assessment is important to confirm the cause and rule out other conditions like heel spurs, stress fractures, or nerve entrapment.

Common causes

Overpronation or flat feet placing excessive strain on the fascia
High arches reducing the foot's natural shock absorption
Sudden increase in activity level or running distance
Prolonged standing on hard surfaces, especially in unsupportive footwear
Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendon reducing ankle flexibility
Excess body weight increasing load on the plantar fascia
Worn-out or poorly fitting shoes lacking arch support

What to expect during assessment

Assessment includes a detailed history of your symptoms, activity level, and footwear habits. Your practitioner evaluates foot mechanics, arch structure, gait, ankle range of motion, and calf flexibility. Palpation of the plantar fascia and heel helps localize the area of involvement. Based on findings, your practitioner discusses treatment options which may include shockwave therapy, custom orthotics, manual therapy, or a combination. If the presentation suggests a different condition, further investigation or referral will be recommended.

How the clinic can help

Shockwave therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis, using focused acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the fascia. Most patients complete three to six sessions. Custom orthotics address biomechanical factors like overpronation or high arches by distributing pressure more evenly across the foot. Chiropractic care can address related issues in the ankle, knee, hip, and lower back that may contribute to altered gait. Your practitioner also prescribes stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves, intrinsic foot muscles, and Achilles tendon.

Self-care and what you can do at home

Rolling a frozen water bottle under your foot for 10 to 15 minutes can reduce pain and inflammation. Stretching your calves and plantar fascia before getting out of bed and after periods of sitting can help with morning pain. Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces and replace worn-out shoes. Reducing high-impact activities temporarily while the fascia heals is generally advisable. If pain does not improve with these measures within a few weeks, professional assessment is recommended.

When to seek urgent care

Seek medical care for sudden severe foot pain after injury, inability to bear weight, signs of infection such as redness, warmth, and fever, or numbness in the foot. If heel pain persists despite consistent conservative care, further evaluation including imaging may be needed to rule out stress fractures or other conditions.

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Common questions about plantar fasciitis

What does plantar fasciitis feel like?: Plantar fasciitis typically causes a sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel, worst with the first steps after waking or after long periods of sitting. The pain often improves with movement but returns after prolonged standing or activity. Some people also feel a deep ache along the arch of the foot.
Does shockwave therapy work for plantar fasciitis?: Shockwave therapy is one of the more effective non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis. It uses focused acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia. Most patients undergo three to six sessions spaced a week apart. Research supports its effectiveness, particularly for cases that have not responded to other conservative treatments.
Can orthotics help with plantar fasciitis?: Custom orthotics can address foot mechanics that contribute to plantar fasciitis, such as overpronation or high arches. They distribute pressure more evenly across the foot and support the plantar fascia during weight-bearing activities. Over-the-counter insoles may provide temporary relief but do not address individual biomechanics.
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?: Most cases improve within two to six months with consistent treatment including shockwave therapy, orthotics, stretching, and activity modification. Factors like severity, how long you have had symptoms, activity level, and adherence to the care plan all affect recovery time. Chronic cases may take longer.
Can plantar fasciitis come back?: Yes, recurrence is possible if the underlying contributing factors are not addressed. Continuing to wear supportive footwear, maintaining calf and foot flexibility, using orthotics if prescribed, and avoiding sudden increases in activity can reduce the risk of recurrence.