Shockwave Therapy for Runners: How I Healed My Plantar Fasciitis and Got Back on Track
Let’s talk about injuries—and more importantly, healing.
As runners, especially as women runners entering perimenopause, we’re no strangers to those stubborn aches and pains that creep in during training cycles. One of the most common culprits? Plantar fasciitis. If you’ve experienced that sharp heel pain first thing in the morning or during a run, you know how frustrating and persistent it can be.
I’ve dealt with the dreaded PF off and on since I ran my first marathon in 2003. I’ve used various insoles, night splints, socks, dry needling, massage, and physical therapy. You name it, I’ve tried it. But after a recent flare of plantar fasciitis, I knew I needed something different. Enter Shockwave therapy.
What Is Shockwave Therapy (EPAT)?
Shockwave therapy, also known as EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-frequency soundwaves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. It’s been widely studied and is gaining traction in sports medicine and physical therapy clinics across the country.
Here’s what’s happening beneath the surface:
"It is presumed that the application of focused strokes causes microcracking of avascular tissues and of tissues poor in blood vessels, thus stimulating the revascularization process by releasing local growth factors and recruiting appropriate stem cells. The resulting changes increase joint mobility, prolong pain relief, and restore normal muscle tone." – PMID: 36498501
Sounds kind of intense—but it works.
My Experience with Plantar Fasciitis and Shockwave Therapy
Back in September, I had a flare of plantar fasciitis after doing one too many runs in carbon-plated shoes. (For those of us prone to injury, those super shoes come with a price.) The pain was subtle in comparison, but I knew if I was proactive I might get back to running sooner rather than later. My chiropractor had just added shockwave therapy to his clinic, so I gave it a shot—literally.
I went through six sessions over the course of a few weeks. During that time, I moved most of my running to the ElliptiGO to reduce impact, but I continued to build my long run base. I also doubled down on ToePro foot strengthening, moving it from “maintenance” to a daily practice.
The result? Complete resolution of my plantar fasciitis. No cortisone. No months off. Just targeted, effective therapy combined with smart training adjustments.
More recently, I had a flare of peroneal tendon discomfort. I scheduled a shockwave session right away, and the pain disappeared the next day.
Why I Recommend Shockwave Therapy for Runners
In my experience, shockwave therapy has been more effective than dry needling, Graston, or traditional PT for managing certain running-related injuries. And I’m not alone—I've heard several success stories from other runners dealing with hamstring injuries, Achilles issues, and chronic plantar fasciitis.
If you're struggling with recurring or lingering injuries, especially those in the foot and lower leg, it might be worth seeking out a provider in your area who offers EPAT therapy.
This could be a game-changer in your running journey—especially if you're training for a race or trying to stay consistent without setbacks.
Final Thoughts
Running injuries are never fun—but they don’t have to be the end of your training cycle. As a woman runner, and someone who juggles motherhood, racing, and daily life, I’ve learned that recovery tools matter just as much as training plans.
If you’re curious about how to treat plantar fasciitis or are wondering whether shockwave therapy is worth it, my answer is: yes, it’s absolutely worth exploring.
Have you tried shockwave therapy? Let me know in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to hear your story.
Happy running,
Sarah
Additional Resources on Shockwave Therapy
Want to dive into the science? Here are two studies worth checking out: