Plantar fasciitis is a common source of chronic foot pain, affecting people who spend long hours standing, walking, or engaging in physical activity. In recent years, more and more patients have turned to shockwave therapy as an effective, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment option.
Depending on the type of device used—such as focused or radial shockwave therapy—the depth of treatment, target conditions, and speed of results can vary significantly. So, which type is right for your situation? And how many sessions does a full treatment course usually require? In this article, we’ll break down these key questions to help you make a confident, informed decision—and get you one step closer to pain-free movement.
How it works: Sends energy directly to the most painful part of the plantar fascia, usually deep inside the heel.
Sessions: Once a week, total of 3–5 sessions per treatment course
Time per session: About 15–20 minutes
When you’ll feel it: Most people feel real relief after 2–3 sessions
Side effects: Some mild swelling or soreness, but usually nothing that affects daily life
How it works: Energy spreads more broadly and stays in the surface layer—best for widespread or shallow pain
Sessions: Once a week, usually 4–6 sessions in total
Time per session: Around 10–15 minutes
When you’ll feel it: Improvement generally noticed after 3–4 sessions
Side effects: Rare, maybe mild bruising or temporary discomfort
To help the treatment work best and prevent flare-ups:
Avoid heavy activity (like running or jumping) for 24–48 hours
Normal walking is okay, but try not to stand too long
Use ice if you feel sore
Yes! These simple exercises help support recovery:
Calf Stretch: Stand facing a wall, stretch each leg for 30 seconds, 3 sets
Plantar Fascia Stretch: Pull your toes toward you in a seated position, 30 seconds, 3–5 times
Foot Massage: Roll a tennis ball or frozen bottle under your foot for 5–10 minutes
Towel Grab: Scrunch a towel with your toes to build foot strength
If you have flat feet or awkward walking patterns, even after your pain goes away, the problem can return. Try:
Wearing supportive shoes or orthotics
Getting a professional gait analysis
Paying attention to balance and posture while walking
Pain is deep (like under the heel)
You’ve had symptoms for over 3 months
You need to hit a precise spot (like calcified or tight areas)
You want faster results with fewer sessions
📌 Recommended device: EMFOCUS
Example: If the pain is deep in your heel, walking hurts a lot, and it’s been going on for months → Go for Focused Shockwave
Pain is more spread out or close to the surface
It's a newer problem or you’re already healing
You're watching your budget or trying conservative care first
📌 Recommended device: INTELECT PULS 30/50/100 series
Example: Pain just started, feels general across the foot arch → Try Radial Shockwave first
Some clinics combine both types:
Start with radial to loosen tissues
Follow up with focused shockwaves to target chronic inflammation and calcification
If you're not sure which is right for you, or if you’d like to learn more about EMFOCUS or the INTELECT series, reach out to us for expert guidance and equipment details!
