Shockwave Therapy in Markham for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
Persistent heel pain can make every step frustrating. At Mount Joy Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre, we assess your symptoms and discuss whether shockwave therapy could be an appropriate next step in your care.
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive option that may be considered when plantar fasciitis symptoms persist despite initial treatment, without a surgical incision or injection as part of the procedure. Our focus is on an individualized plan, realistic expectations and helping you return to the activities that matter to you.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy delivers acoustic energy through an applicator placed against the skin and is thought to support the body’s healing response in the treated tissues. It may help some people with persistent plantar fascia pain, although results vary and research findings are mixed.
At our Markham clinic, we use Swiss DolorClast® technology as part of an individualized treatment plan. Your chiropodist will explain the proposed treatment, discuss the risks and assess whether it is suitable for you.
What to Expect from Shockwave Treatment
- An assessment first: We begin by discussing your symptoms, health history and previous treatments before recommending a plan.
- A planned course of care: Your chiropodist will explain the recommended number and spacing of appointments, with progress reviewed along the way.
- Some treatment discomfort: Shockwave can be uncomfortable, and temporary soreness, redness, bruising or swelling may occur afterward.
- Aftercare tailored to you: Light daily activities are generally possible, but you may be advised to avoid running, impact exercise and long walks for 24–48 hours after treatment.
- Gradual rather than guaranteed improvement: Symptom improvement may take several weeks, with some people noticing a change around 6–12 weeks after their final treatment; the timing and response vary.
Does Shockwave Therapy Treat Heel Spurs?
A heel spur seen on an X-ray does not necessarily explain your pain, and many people with heel spurs have no heel pain at all. When shockwave is considered for plantar fasciitis, the aim is to address symptoms associated with the plantar fascia, not to remove the bony spur.
Personalized Heel Pain Care with Our Markham Chiropodist
Your appointment is an opportunity to discuss more than a single treatment. We consider your symptoms, footwear, daily activities and walking pattern when recommending care.
Depending on your assessment, your plan may include:
- Custom foot orthotics: Where clinically indicated.
- Footwear recommendations: Based on fit, comfort and your daily activities.
- Night splints: Where appropriate for your symptoms and tolerance.
- Taping: As an additional short-term management option.
- Targeted exercises and home care: With instructions on timing, progression and activity modification.
Your chiropodist will explain which options are appropriate for you and how they fit together. Ask us about any concerns, including work demands, exercise goals and the expected cost of care.
Book a Heel Pain Assessment in Markham
Unsure whether shockwave therapy is right for you? Book an assessment at Mount Joy Foot Clinic & Orthotic Centre to discuss your heel pain and explore your treatment options.
How does Shockwave therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy activates the body’s self healing process to reduce pain by:
- Increasing metabolic activity
- Improved blood circulation & formation of new blood vessels
- Cell regeneration & collagen synthesis
- Stimulates nerves to reduce localized sensitivity
- Break up calcification within the tendon or fascia
- Analgesic & anti-inflammatory effect
Ready to Say Goodbye to Heel Pain?
Expert Heel Pain Care with a Chiropodist
Dealing with chronic heel pain? Our Chiropodists are dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care to stop the pain. Book an appointment with us today and take the first step to healthier, happier feet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? We Have Answers.
You may experience some mild discomfort or a tapping sensation during the treatment, especially when the acoustic waves target areas of chronic inflammation or scar tissue. However, treatments are short (usually lasting about 5 to 10 minutes), and our chiropodist can adjust the intensity of the Swiss DolorClast device to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the session.
Most patients require between 3 to 5 weekly sessions to achieve optimal results. While many people notice a significant reduction in pain after just the first couple of treatments, it is important to remember that your body’s natural tissue regeneration and healing process continues for up to 3 months following your final session.
As a chiropody clinic, we primarily use shockwave therapy to treat stubborn, chronic foot and ankle conditions that haven't responded to traditional rest or stretching. The most common conditions we treat include:
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Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs
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Achilles tendinopathy
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Chronic heel pain
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Shin splints and arch pain
One of the biggest benefits of shockwave therapy is that it requires no anesthesia, no injections, and zero surgical downtime. Side effects are minimal and typically limited to brief, mild redness, swelling, or aching in the treated area. You can generally return to work and light daily activities immediately following your appointment.
Yes! In fact, combining therapies often yields the best long-term outcomes. While shockwave therapy breaks down chronic scar tissue and kickstarts healing, our Markham chiropodist may also recommend custom foot orthotics, orthopedic footwear, night splints (like the Strassburg Sock), or targeted stretches to correct underlying biomechanical issues and prevent your pain from returning.
