What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting thousands of people across the UK every year. It occurs when the plantar fascia — a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes — becomes inflamed or damaged.
People with plantar fasciitis often experience a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly with their first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may ease with movement but can return after standing or walking for long periods.
This condition is especially common in:
- People who are on their feet for extended periods
- Runners and athletes
- Individuals with flat feet or high arches
- Those who wear unsupportive footwear
Without treatment, plantar fasciitis can become chronic and significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. That’s why intervention is so important — and why therapies like shockwave treatment are gaining popularity as an effective solution.
At our osteopathy clinic in Enfield, North London, we regularly see patients suffering from persistent heel pain and provide tailored, evidence-based treatments to help them recover and get back on their feet.
Common Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
There are several treatment approaches for plantar fasciitis, especially in its early stages. Many people start with conservative methods to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, including:
- Rest and activity modification – Reducing time spent on your feet to avoid further irritation of the plantar fascia.
- Ice therapy – Applying ice packs to the heel to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Stretching exercises – Targeted stretches for the calf muscles and plantar fascia to improve flexibility and reduce tension.
- Supportive footwear or orthotics – Shoes with good arch support or custom orthotic insoles to reduce strain on the heel.
- Manual therapy or physiotherapy – Hands-on treatment to release tight muscles and improve biomechanics.
While many people find relief through these methods, they don’t always provide a long-term solution — particularly in cases where the condition has become chronic. When symptoms persist for several months or keep returning, more advanced treatments may be needed.
That’s where shockwave therapy comes in — offering a non-invasive, clinically proven option that promotes healing and tackles the root cause of pain, rather than just managing symptoms.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It’s commonly used to treat chronic musculoskeletal conditions — including plantar fasciitis — that haven’t responded to traditional therapies.
The treatment works by delivering targeted shockwaves to the affected area (in this case, the heel), which:
- Increases blood flow and circulation
- Stimulates the body’s natural healing response
- Breaks down scar tissue and calcium deposits
- Reduces pain and inflammation
Shockwave therapy is supported by growing clinical research and is widely used in sports medicine, physiotherapy, and osteopathy. It’s particularly beneficial for conditions like plantar fasciitis because it treats both the symptoms and the underlying cause.
Unlike surgical options, shockwave therapy requires no injections, no medication, and no downtime — making it an appealing option for people looking to stay active while healing naturally.
At our clinic in Enfield, North London, we use state-of-the-art shockwave equipment and tailor each treatment plan to your specific needs for the best possible outcome.
How Shockwave Therapy Treats Plantar Fasciitis
Shockwave therapy is especially effective for chronic plantar fasciitis, where the condition has persisted for more than six weeks and hasn’t responded well to other treatments. It targets the root cause of the problem by stimulating tissue repair and interrupting pain signals.
Here’s how it works:
🔹 Stimulates Tissue Regeneration
The sound waves penetrate deep into the heel tissue, triggering a healing response. This helps regenerate the damaged fibres of the plantar fascia and encourages new blood vessel formation — improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the affected area.
🔹 Breaks Down Scar Tissue
Chronic plantar fasciitis often involves microscopic scar tissue buildup, which limits flexibility and prolongs pain. Shockwave therapy breaks down these adhesions, allowing for better movement and faster recovery.
🔹 Reduces Pain and Inflammation
Shockwaves interrupt pain signals being sent to the brain and stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins. Many patients report a noticeable reduction in pain after just a few sessions.
🔹 Long-Term Benefits
While some treatments offer temporary relief, shockwave therapy encourages actual healing — which means longer-lasting results. Studies show that many patients experience significant improvement in heel pain within 4–6 weeks of starting treatment.
At our Enfield, North London osteopathy clinic, we’ve helped numerous patients return to walking, exercising, and enjoying daily life again — free from persistent heel pain — thanks to this innovative treatment option.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy Treatment
If you’re considering shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis, you may be wondering what the treatment involves. The good news is that it’s a straightforward, non-invasive procedure that requires no medication or recovery time — making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
Here’s what you can expect:
🔹 Initial Assessment
Before starting treatment, we carry out a thorough assessment at our Enfield, North London clinic to confirm the diagnosis and ensure shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition. We’ll discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous treatments to create a personalised care plan.
🔹 The Treatment Process
- You’ll be comfortably positioned, and gel will be applied to your heel to help transmit the shockwaves.
- A handheld device delivers controlled acoustic waves to the affected area.
- Each session typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes.
- Most patients receive a course of 3–6 sessions, spaced about a week apart.
🔹 Sensation During Treatment
You may feel a tapping or pulsing sensation, which can range from mildly uncomfortable to slightly intense — but it’s generally well tolerated and does not require anaesthesia.
🔹 Aftercare and Recovery
There’s no downtime after treatment. You can go about your day as usual, though we may advise you to avoid high-impact activities (like running) for a short period. Any mild soreness typically settles within 24–48 hours.
🔹 When Will You See Results?
Some patients notice improvement after just one or two sessions, while others feel the benefits gradually over a few weeks. The healing process continues even after the course of treatment is complete.
At our clinic, we combine shockwave therapy with expert osteopathic advice on stretching, footwear, and movement — ensuring you get the best possible outcome and long-term relief.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave therapy is a highly effective treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis, particularly when other conservative methods — like rest, orthotics, and stretching — haven’t provided lasting relief. But is it the right solution for your specific case?
Here are some key points to consider:
✅ You may be a good candidate if:
- You’ve had heel pain for more than 6 weeks that hasn’t improved with rest or other therapies
- You want to avoid surgery or injections
- You’re looking for a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option
- You want to stay active during your recovery
❌ It may not be suitable if:
- You’re pregnant
- You have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning medication
- You have a nerve or bone condition near the treatment area
- You’ve recently had a corticosteroid injection in the heel
At our Enfield, North London osteopathy clinic, we carry out a full consultation to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your individual case. If it’s not, we’ll guide you toward other effective treatment options — always with your long-term recovery in mind.
The goal is simple: get you back on your feet, pain-free, with a solution that supports your lifestyle and health goals.
Our Approach at Our Enfield, North London Osteopathy Clinic
At our clinic in Enfield, North London, we take a whole-body, patient-centred approach to treating plantar fasciitis. We understand that persistent heel pain doesn’t just affect your foot — it impacts how you walk, work, exercise, and enjoy everyday life.
That’s why we go beyond quick fixes and offer targeted, evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your needs.
Here’s what sets our clinic apart:
🔹 Personalised Assessment
Every patient begins with a detailed consultation. We assess not only your heel pain but also how your posture, gait, footwear, and lifestyle habits may be contributing to the problem.
🔹 Advanced Shockwave Therapy
We use high-quality, clinical-grade shockwave equipment, ensuring precise and effective treatment. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn heel pain or a long-standing injury, we customise the intensity and frequency of your sessions to suit your progress.
🔹 Osteopathic Expertise
Our team combines shockwave therapy with expert manual therapy, movement advice, and rehabilitation support — helping you build strength, improve mobility, and prevent future flare-ups.
🔹 Convenient and Local
Located in the heart of Enfield, North London, our clinic is easily accessible and committed to providing a welcoming, professional environment where your recovery is our top priority.
Many of our patients come to us after months of frustration with ongoing pain — and leave finally feeling hopeful again. Whether you’re an active runner, a busy parent, or someone who just wants to walk without discomfort, we’re here to help you move better and feel better.
Book a Consultation and Start Your Recovery Today
If you’re tired of living with persistent heel pain and want a long-term solution that actually works, shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis could be the answer.
At our osteopathy clinic in Enfield, North London, we offer expert-led, personalised care designed to get you moving comfortably again — without surgery, injections, or unnecessary downtime.
📞 Ready to take the next step?
Booking your initial consultation is easy. During your visit, we’ll assess your condition, discuss your options, and explain exactly how shockwave therapy can support your recovery.
✅ Experienced practitioners
✅ Evidence-based treatment
✅ Convenient North London location
✅ Compassionate, one-to-one care
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many of our patients have similar questions before starting shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve answered some of the most common queries below.
❓ Is shockwave therapy painful?
While shockwave therapy involves a series of pulses directed at the affected area, most patients describe the sensation as mildly uncomfortable but tolerable. You may feel a tapping or pulsing sensation, but it should not cause significant pain. Any discomfort generally subsides after the session.
❓ How long does it take to see results?
Some people experience relief after just 1-2 sessions, but for most patients, improvement becomes noticeable after 3-6 weeks. It’s important to follow your practitioner’s advice on aftercare and rehabilitation exercises to maximise results.
❓ How many sessions will I need?
Typically, a course of 3 to 6 treatments is recommended, spaced about one week apart. The exact number depends on the severity of your condition and your body’s response to treatment.
❓ Can shockwave therapy permanently cure plantar fasciitis?
While shockwave therapy can significantly reduce pain and promote healing, results vary from person to person. For many, the therapy provides long-lasting relief, but it’s important to combine it with lifestyle adjustments, such as stretching, proper footwear, and movement modification, to prevent recurrence.
❓ Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare but can include mild soreness or redness in the treatment area. These typically resolve within 24-48 hours. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions to minimise any discomfort.
❓ Is shockwave therapy suitable for everyone?
Shockwave therapy is not recommended for people who are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are suffering from certain health conditions (e.g., nerve damage near the treatment area). Our practitioners will assess your suitability for treatment during the initial consultation.
