Condition
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment in St. Louis, MO
Take the Sting Out of Your First Step
That knife-in-the-heel feeling when you get out of bed — or stand up after sitting — is the hallmark of plantar fasciitis: irritation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot. Rest, ice, and new shoes help some people. When they don't, it's time to treat the tissue directly. Radial Shockwave Therapy is one of the most-studied non-surgical options for stubborn heel pain, and we pair it with hands-on foot and ankle care.
Signs It's Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain from plantar fasciitis has a pattern:
Sharp heel pain with your first steps in the morning
Pain when you stand up after sitting
Pain that eases as you walk, then returns after a long day on your feet
Tenderness on the bottom of the heel or along the arch
Tight calves or a tight Achilles
Heel pain that's hung on for months despite stretching or inserts
The Approach to Heel Pain
We assess your foot, ankle, calf, and how you walk. Then we go after the tissue: Radial Shockwave Therapy to stimulate healing in chronic, stubborn tissue; gentle adjustments to the foot and ankle; soft-tissue work for the calf and arch; cold laser therapy to calm inflammation; and a simple home stretching and strengthening plan with footwear guidance. Runners and athletes — see our sports injury care too.
Not All Heel Pain Is Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain can also come from a stress fracture, a pinched nerve, or circulation problems. If your exam doesn't fit plantar fasciitis, we'll tell you and refer you to the right provider through our trusted referral network.
Get seen promptly if heel pain followed a fall or a sudden pop, you can't put weight on the foot, there's significant swelling or redness, or you have burning or numbness in the foot — especially if you have diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
- You'll feel it — a strong tapping sensation — but the intensity is adjustable and sessions are quick. No needles, no injections, no downtime.
How many sessions will I need?
- Plantar fasciitis is commonly treated with a short series of weekly sessions. After your exam, we'll lay out the plan upfront so there are no surprises.
Do I need orthotics or inserts?
- Sometimes. It depends on your foot mechanics and your shoes. We'll tell you honestly whether they're worth it for you.
Can I keep walking or running?
- Usually, with some modifications. We'll help you stay active without making it worse.
Let's Get You Back on Your Feet
We'll find out what's driving your heel pain, treat it directly, and give you a plan to keep it from coming back.