Do You Have Plantar Fasciitis Pain? Here’s What the Latest Research Says Works (and What Doesn’t)
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
By Dr Caleb Gorman, Comprehensive Chiropractic and Sports Performance
If you’ve ever jumped out of bed in the morning only to be greeted by a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel—like stepping on a tack—you might be experiencing plantar fasciitis. This pesky condition is one of the most common culprits behind heel pain, and it doesn’t discriminate; it can affect everyone from weekend warriors to those just trying to get through their daily routine.
At Comprehensive Chiropractic and Sports Performance, we see this condition often. Fortunately, new research continues to shape how we treat plantar fasciitis, and some surprising insights are changing the game when it comes to lasting relief.
Let’s break down the latest evidence on what’s actually effective—according to recent research—and how we integrate these findings into your care plan.
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RPW Shockwave Therapy: A Clear Winner
Multiple recent studies continue to show that Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is one of the most effective conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis—especially when traditional options like stretching, orthotics, or even steroid injections have failed.
A 2023 randomized controlled trial using both ultrasound imaging and pressure plate analysis (pedobarography) showed that ESWT significantly reduced plantar fascia thickness and improved foot mechanics. Patients showed better pressure distribution when walking and reported lower pain scores after just a few sessions.
Another meta-analysis (a study that pools data from multiple clinical trials) confirmed the same findings—ESWT leads to measurable reductions in plantar fascia thickness, which correlates with less pain and improved function.
What this means in our office: We use radial pressure wave therapy (a form of ESWT) as part of our comprehensive approach. We typically see results in 3–6 sessions, and it’s completely non-invasive. If you’ve been told surgery is your only option, this might be a game-changer.
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Cortisone Injections: Not So Promising After All?
Corticosteroid injections have long been a go-to option in many clinics for plantar fasciitis, especially when pain is severe. But newer research suggests they may not be as beneficial as once believed—and might even be harmful in the long term.
A 2023 meta-analysis reviewed multiple trials and found that while cortisone injections might give short-term relief, they do not significantly reduce plantar fascia thickness. In fact, repeated injections have been associated with weakening of the tissue and even increased risk of plantar fascia rupture.
Our take: While injections might still have a role in certain cases, we believe in addressing the root cause—not just.
numbing the pain. We use therapies that help the tissue heal rather than suppressing symptoms temporarily.
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Barefoot Walking: Surprisingly Effective
Here’s something you probably didn’t expect to hear from a healthcare provider: walking barefoot (yes, barefoot!) may help heal chronic heel pain.
A recent randomized controlled trial showed that individuals who incorporated regular barefoot walking into their routine experienced significantly less heel pain compared to those who didn’t. The reason? Walking barefoot helps restore natural foot biomechanics and activates intrinsic foot muscles that are often weakened by overly supportive footwear.
Our tip: Start small. Begin with 5–10 minutes of barefoot walking per day on safe, clean indoor surfaces like your home floors. Combine this with calf and foot strengthening exercises, and you’re giving your foot the chance to rebuild strength and resiliency.
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What It All Means for Your Treatment Plan
Plantar fasciitis is stubborn—but not unbeatable. Here's what we recommend based on the best available research:
What to Include in Your Care Plan:
· Radial Pressure Wave Therapy (ESWT) also referred to as Shockwave – Non-invasive, research-backed, and effective.
· Home-based strengthening and mobility work – Especially for the calves, arches, and big toe.
· Barefoot walking (progressively) – To restore natural foot function.
· Lifestyle adjustments – Addressing standing/walking patterns, footwear choices, and training errors.
What to Be Cautious About:
· Repeated cortisone injections – May offer quick relief, but no long-term tissue benefit and potential harm.
· Over-reliance on orthotics and stiff shoes – Might feel good short-term but could weaken foot muscles over time.
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Our Approach at Comprehensive Chiropractic and Sports Performance (CCSP)
At CCSP, we don’t just treat the heel—we treat the whole kinetic chain. Many cases of plantar fasciitis are rooted in poor ankle mobility, hip weakness, or gait dysfunction. That’s why we combine advanced therapies like Shockwave with personalized rehab plans, gait analysis, and hands-on care to get you better—and keep you better.
If you're struggling with heel pain and feel like you've "tried everything," we invite you to come in for a consult. We’ll assess your foot mechanics, review your treatment history, and put together a plan based on what the research says works best.
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Call us today at 636-938-9310 to start your journey back to pain-free walking.
Your feet will thank you!
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