Heel Pain Remedy: Shockwave Therapy For Plantar Fasciitis Treatment (Singapore)
If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t worry.
It’s actually a pretty common condition that can be caused by a number of different things. Some of the most common culprits include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, or stress fractures. Luckily, there are plenty of treatment options available depending on what’s causing your pain. So if you’re feeling uncomfortable, just know that you’re not alone and there’s plenty of help out there!

Gold Standard Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
What is Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)?

Plantar fasciitis, also known as heel pain, is the most common foot problem we see in Singapore. The plantar fascia is a connective tissue that connects your heel bone, runs into the foot arch, and extends to your big toe. Its main job is to support the foot arch by providing flexibility, stability, and shock absorption with every step you take.
When too much stress or strain is placed on the plantar fascia, it can become irritated or inflamed, and sometimes small tears may develop, causing pain and discomfort.
Certain busy professionals are especially prone to plantar fasciitis — such as doctors, nurses, chefs, teachers, sports enthusiasts, tradespeople, or anyone who spends long hours on their feet.
Heel Pain Causes
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot — becomes irritated or inflamed. Common causes include:
Overuse or repetitive stress
Activities such as running, walking long distances, or standing for extended periods put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
Wearing the wrong footwear for long hours
Examples include wearing slippers for long shopping trips or dress shoes during hiking. These can increase pressure and cause irritation.
Carrying excessive weight
This includes pregnancy, carrying heavy school bags, operating heavy machinery, or lugging loaded office bags, all of which add extra load on your feet.
New social activities
Joining events like corporate marathons, health hub Zumba classes, dynamic yoga, or jumping exercises without proper warm-up or cool-down can trigger plantar fasciitis.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
Limited flexibility in these muscles increases tension on the plantar fascia.

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Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary, as the discomfort often extends from the heel into the arch and even toward the big toe. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Sharp pain after rest
Many people describe a sudden, sharp heel pain when taking the first few steps out of bed. This often eases as you move around. Some may also feel a pulling sensation after standing still — like waiting at a bus stop — and feel the discomfort return as they start walking again.
Heel stiffness
Your feet may feel heavy, stiff, or stuck — making it difficult to move forward or take a proper step, especially after sitting for a while.
Pain after, not during, exercise
Unlike a muscle strain, plantar fasciitis pain typically worsens after a workout or high-impact activity. This is often due to soft tissue inflammation that flares up after you cool down.
Tenderness or mild swelling in the heel
You might notice the area feels tender to the touch or mildly swollen, especially after a long day on your feet.
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Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Options
These are the treatment options available at Feet First Podiatry. The table presents it’s benefits, efficacy and the cost.
Treatment Options | Benefits | Efficacy | Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Shockwave Therapy | ● Pain relief ● Fast acting |
High | $250 (4000 shocks) $450 (8000 shocks) |
Super Inductive System | ● Muscle Recovery ● Relaxing session |
High | $190/site $350/2x sites |
3D-Printed Orthotics | ● Custom made arch and heel support to your feet | High | Scanning $90 Orthotics $628 |
Laser | ● Penetrates very well into small areas ● Painless |
Moderate | $220 |
Dry Needling | ● Reset the pain pathway | Moderate | Included in consultation |
Strapping | ● Support foot structure 3–7 days | Moderate | Included in consultation |
Stretching Strengthening Program |
● Useful tips for long term solution | Low to Moderate | Included in consultation |
Shockwave Therapy In Singapore
What is shockwave therapy
Benefits of shockwave treatment for plantar fasciitis
Shockwave therapy, known as ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy), is the latest non-invasive treatment option for plantar fasciitis (heel pain). It is currently one of the most effective treatments when conservative options, such as stretching, strapping, and insoles have failed to provide pain relief.
The models and types of machines vary from clinic to clinic, and outcomes depend heavily on the doctor’s or clinician’s experience in operating the equipment as well as their knowledge of foot anatomy, which together contribute to achieving the best possible treatment outcome.
Shockwave therapy is measured by the number of “shocks” (pulses) delivered to the affected foot. It typically ranges from 2,000 to a maximum of 8,000 shocks per session, per foot. Some clinics may charge excessively but provide only a limited number of shocks per treatment.
At Feet First Podiatry, we are the most affordable podiatry clinic offering fixed prices:
- $250 for 4,000 shocks, (one foot)
- $450 for 8,000 shocks. (two feet)
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
- Pain Relief
Shockwave therapy can significantly reduce pain by desensitising nerve endings in the heel area, helping you regain and restore foot function and comfort. - Stimulates Healing
Shockwave therapy promotes self-healing by inducing microtrauma that encourages a) blood flow, b) collagen production, and c) tissue regeneration at the heel. - Non-Invasive & Safe
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that requires NO incision and NO anaesthesia. It carries a very low risk of complications or side effects. - No Downtime
Shockwave therapy can often be performed during a work lunch break, or after school or sports activities, as there is no downtime. This means you can resume your daily activities or favourite hobbies soon after treatment, with minimal disruption to your routine.
- Pain Relief
What to expect after shockwave therapy treatment ?
Plenty of rest is advised, and minimal to no heavy weight-bearing activities are recommended if possible. This provides a window for your feet to fully rest and self-heal, allowing the benefits of the shockwave therapy session, such as increased blood flow, collagen production, and tissue regeneration to take effect.
Pain relief usually occurs shortly after treatment, but for some people, it may take up to two days to fully experience the benefits.
Typically, shockwave therapy is performed on a weekly basis, or at most every two weeks, until the pain is fully relieved. For mild cases, treatment usually requires 3–5 sessions, spaced 10 days apart. For severe cases, up to 8 sessions on a weekly basis may be needed.
Shockwave therapy provides a “reset” option, delivering significant pain relief so you can regain your normal routine. At the same time, it’s important to investigate the activities that may have triggered your plantar fasciitis and consider lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrence.
For example:
- Place a yoga mat at the cooking station to reduce strain while standing.
- Consider online grocery shopping rather than visiting a physical store.
- Sit down while doing laundry or ironing to reduce load on your feet.
Severity | Recommended Sessions | Session Spacing | Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Mild | 3 to 5 sessions | 10 days apart | $250 for 4,000 shocks (one foot) |
Severe | 5 to 8 sessions | Weekly | $450 for 8,000 shocks (two feet) |
What is the success rate of shockwave therapy?
Based on randomised controlled trials for shockwave therapy on plantar fasciitis conducted in the last decade, success rates were reported at 88% in the USA, 80% in Australia, and 70% in the UK. At Feet First Podiatry, our clinic has achieved approximately an 82% success rate, with a minimum of 3 sessions and a maximum of 7 sessions required for plantar fasciitis.
How much does shockwave therapy cost in Singapore?
In Singapore, it is important to find licensed and trained doctors, podiatrists or clinicians to perform a proper shockwave therapy session. For ideal results, plantar fasciitis typically requires 4,000 to 8,000 shocks per session. If you do not receive an adequate amount of shocks, it may delay your treatment and require more sessions.
To ensure you receive the maximum benefits, it is important to check who is performing the treatment, how many shocks are provided per session, and the associated costs. The shockwave machine should be properly calibrated, well-maintained, and the shock probe regularly replaced to ensure you receive the best care possible.
At Feet First Podiatry, we do not sell any packages. As soon as you feel pain-free, you do not need any further shockwave therapy. This treatment is for pain relief only and does not have preventative measures.
Is shockwave treatment covered by Medicare?
Shockwave treatment is usually administered in an outpatient or clinic setting, which is not covered by Medicare or Medishield. We encourage you to check with your insurance agent to obtain a pre-approval email before visiting us. This ensures a peace of mind regarding financial security, as shockwave treatment for plantar fasciitis typically requires a minimum of three sessions for optimal treatment outcomes.
How many shockwave therapy session is needed to heal plantar fasciitis?
Shockwave therapy heavily depends on your pain level reporting and feedback. The optimal outcome also depends on whether there is a consistent irritant or physical activity that is putting pressure on the plantar fascia. Typically, at Feet First Podiatry, we see full recovery within 3–5 sessions for mild to moderate plantar fasciitis. In rare, severe cases, it may take up to 8 sessions for the heel pain to resolve completely.
How to Cure Plantar Fasciitis in One Week?
Contact Us Today To Experience the Power of Shockwave Therapy!
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Other Heel Pain Treatments In Singapore
Do you have any other treatment options besides shockwave therapy to help my plantar fasciitis go away faster?
At Feet First Podiatry, we understand that time is precious, especially in Singapore. That’s why we are excited to introduce our Super Inductive System (SIS)—a muscle recovery machine that helps relieve muscle tension in your feet and calf muscles.
It is completely pain-free and takes only 12 minutes per session while you relax on our comfortable treatment bed. SIS muscle recovery is designed for those who have very tight muscles and are unable to perform regular stretching.
With both shockwave therapy and the SIS muscle recovery machine, Feet First Podiatry has you covered.
Feature | Shockwave Therapy (Pain Relief) | Super Inductive System (Muscle Recovery) |
---|---|---|
Mechanism | ● Increased blood flow ● collagen synthesis ● tissue regeneration |
● Reduce muscle tension ● Muscle strengthening ● Muscle relaxation ● Increase joint mobilisation |
Target Area | Plantar fascia (heel) | Muscles in the foot and calfs |
Duration | 15 – 20 minutes | 12 minutes |
Pain Level | Mild discomfort | No pain |
Recommended sessions | 3 to 8 session (or until no pain) |
As needed, can be combined with shockwave therapy |
Ideal for | Localised heel pain with tissue inflammation | Tight calf or foot muscle, unable to perform regular stretching |
Effectiveness | 70-88% success rate | 96% in pain reduction |
Other Home Remedies
Home Remedy | Description | Frequency |
---|---|---|
Calf Stretches | Stand facing a wall, keep heel on the ground, hold stretch for 30 seconds. | ● 3 times a day |
Heel Drop on Platform | Stand on a platform or step, slowly lower heel until it touches the ground, hold for 1 minute. | ● 10 times a day |
Foot Arch Strengthening | Stand on the affected foot, rise onto tiptoe and lower back to the ground. | ● As many times as possible within 3 minutes, twice a day |
Frozen Water Bottle Rol | Place a frozen water bottle under your foot, roll it back and forth. | ● 15 minutes a day |
Supportive Shoes with Arch Support | Wear shoes with good arch support to reduce pressure on the foot. | ● All day, whenever walking or standing |
Choosing between Shockwave Therapy, SIS or Home Remedies
Treatment Options | Shockwave Therapy (Pain Relief) | Super Inductive System (Muscle Recovery) | Home Remedies |
---|---|---|---|
Description | ● Promotes healing of the plantar fascia ● Reduces pain quickly ● Stimulates blood flow and collagen production |
● Relaxes tight muscles ● Improves circulation ● Reduces pain ● Quick, pain-free sessions |
● Improves flexibility ● Helps manage pain ● Supports mild cases ● Inexpensive |
Pros | ✔ Clinically proven; ✔ fast pain relief; ✔ non-invasive. |
✔ Pain-free; ✔ quick; good for tight calf muscles. |
✔ Free or low-cost; ✔ can be done at home; ✔ helps mild cases. |
Cons | Requires clinic visits; moderate cost. | Additional cost. | Takes time; less effective for severe pain. |

Feet First Podiatry
Why Visit Our Podiatrist For Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment in Singapore
At Feet First Podiatry, we believe in offering evidence-based, results-driven care for plantar fasciitis and heel pain. We take the time to tailor each treatment plan just for you.
Why Choose Us?
- Fixed, Transparent Pricing — No complicated packages or surprise bills. You only pay for what you need, with clear, upfront costs.
All-in-One Care — From the latest shockwave therapy to our Super Inductive System (SIS) muscle recovery machine, we bring together the best treatments for faster pain relief and recovery. - Experienced Hands — Every treatment is delivered by our licensed and experienced podiatrists, who know feet inside and out.
- No Package Selling — We don’t believe in locking you into packages you might not need. We focus on what works best for you, session by session.
- Comfort and Convenience — Our clinic is designed to be welcoming and easy to get to, with a focus on your comfort every step of the way.
At Feet First Podiatry, we’re here to help you get back on your feet, pain-free and ready to enjoy life again.
Feet First Podiatry
Client Reviews
tiffany is very experienced and her patience in explaining medical terms and exercises in simple terms was a huge plus. randall, her clinic manager, is also a gem; always warm, friendly & welcoming.
my heel pain has improved tremendously since i started visiting tiffany for treatment. i would definitely recommend tiffany to anyone who has issues with their feet/foot and looking for a genuine professional to resolve your issue! definitely worth more than a 5 star review! ❤️
Had my treatment for the entire month and throughout, Dr Tiffany was very attentive to how I felt and my progress of recovery. She suggested treatment plans and lifestyle changes that I can make so that my recovery can be whole.
I appreciate the time taken by both Manager Ran & Dr Tiffany in making me feel not just comfortable but also homely! Most importantly the effects of treatments was great and I am now back to my weekly runs! 🫶🏼
I love the after care treatment too.
I was given some exercises through an app which has very simple videos for me to follow so that I can continue to self treat my heel pain.
I highly recommend anyone who needs a podiatrist to come to Feet First!
What really stood out was their genuine concern for my well-being and their tailored approach to treatment. The procedure was smooth, and I left feeling confident in my recovery plan. I highly recommend Podiatrist Tiffany from Feet First Podiatry for anyone seeking help to nurse their feet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get instant relief from heel pain?
At Feet First Podiatry, we are proud to offer both shockwave therapy and the super inducting system (SIS)/muscle recovery, a powerful combination designed to provide instant pain relief.
For plantar fasciitis treatment, we use shockwave therapy to target the inflamed site, helping to reduce pain and stimulate healing. This is followed by our SIS muscle recovery machine, which works to relax deep muscle tension, improve muscle strength, and support joint mobility.
Most of our patients experience significant relief within three sessions, and every treatment plan is carefully guided and monitored by our podiatrist at each consultation.
No packages. No upselling. Just honest care and evidence-based treatment to get you moving comfortably again.
What is the fastest way to cure heel pain?
The fastest and most effective way to relieve heel pain is to rest, stop all activities, and apply ice regularly. However, we understand that this is a big ask for most people in Singapore with busy lifestyles.
That’s where our unique combination of shockwave therapy and the super inducting system (SIS) muscle recovery machine comes in handy. This treatment pairing is especially effective for individuals with plantar fasciitis who need quick relief without putting life on hold.
The dual approach helps reset your baseline by instantly reducing pain and discomfort, so you can feel better after each session and get back to your routine. Most of our patients notice a significant improvement within 3 to 4 sessions.
At the end of each visit, our podiatrist will provide personalised stretching and strengthening exercises, along with footwear recommendations — all aimed at keeping the pain away for good.
No packages. No pressure. Just honest, effective treatment to help you walk pain-free, faster.
What happens if I ignore plantar fasciitis?
Ignoring plantar fasciitis and continuing with heavy foot-loading over time can lead to a sudden increase in pain and start affecting your daily activities like walking or standing.
In a clinical setting, when plantar fasciitis is left untreated, it often results in:
- Longer treatment time – the condition becomes more stubborn and requires more sessions to resolve.
- Compensation issues – the other foot or limb may start taking on extra load, leading to new pain or problems elsewhere.
- Reduced mobility – making it harder to participate in activities that involve footwork, such as sports, family outings, or even routine errands.
Don’t wait for it to get worse. The sooner you treat it, the faster you can get back on your feet, pain-free.
Does shock wave therapy really work for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, it really does.
Shockwave therapy (also known as ESWT – Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) is one of the most effective non-invasive treatments available for plantar fasciitis today. It’s designed to target the inflamed tissue directly, promoting natural healing and reducing pain quickly.
Over the past decade, studies from countries like the USA, Australia, the UK and Singapore have shown a 70–88% success rate in treating plantar fasciitis using shockwave therapy.
At Feet First Podiatry, we’ve seen consistent results with most patients feeling significant improvement within 3 to 4 sessions. For more complex cases, it can take up to 7 sessions. We also combine this with our Super Inducting System (SIS)/muscle recovery machine to enhance healing and provide faster relief.
What are the side effects of shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis?
Shockwave therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment that most patients tolerate really well. But just like any treatment, you might experience some mild side effects, which usually go away within a couple of days.
Common ones include:
- Mild soreness or aching around the heel or arch (like after a good workout)
- Tenderness when you touch the area
These side effects are normal and generally fade within 1 to 2 days. If anything feels off or lasts longer, just let us know. At Feet First Podiatry, we carefully monitor your treatment, adjust the machine settings to suit you, and check in regularly so you get the best results with the least discomfort.
How often should I take shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis?
Shockwave therapy is usually done every 10 to 14 days, depending on your pain and how your foot is healing. For mild to moderate plantar fasciitis, most people need about 3 to 5 sessions spaced around 10 days apart. For more stubborn cases, it can take up to 8 weekly sessions.
At Feet First Podiatry, we customise your treatment plan and monitor your progress closely, making sure you get the right care without any unnecessary sessions.
How far apart should shockwave treatments be?
Shockwave therapy sessions are usually scheduled about 1 to 2 weeks apart. This allows your foot enough time to heal and respond to each treatment. Most patients come in every 7 to 14 days, depending on how their pain is and how well they’re recovering.
Is shock wave therapy painful?
Most people may feel a mild pulsing sensation during shockwave therapy and it is not exactly painful. At our clinic, the shockwave machine comes with an AI program tailored for different conditions, plus manual tuning to adjust to your comfort. In most cases, patients describe the sensation as deep pressure rather than sharp pain, and it usually settles down once the session is over.
What are the risks of shock wave therapy?
Shockwave therapy is very safe with minimal side effects. Some people may feel slight redness or tenderness after the session. These usually settle within a day or two. No downtime, no medication and a safe, targeted treatment to get you moving again.
How much does shockwave therapy cost in Singapore?
Most clinics offering shockwave therapy in Singapore charge between $150 to $500 per session, but many don’t specify how many shocks are delivered. At Feet First Podiatry, we ensure you receive at least 4,000 shocks per session for $250, or 8,000 shocks for $450 if both feet are treated.
The success of your treatment doesn’t just rely on the machine, instead it depends on how experienced and anatomically trained your healthcare provider is, and how many shocks are delivered per session.
How many sessions of shockwave therapy do you need?
It really depends on how your body responds and how long the plantar fasciitis has been bothering you. At Feet First Podiatry, we typically see great results in 3 to 4 sessions for mild to moderate heel pain, spaced about 7 to 10 days apart.
For more persistent or severe cases, it may take up to 7 or 8 sessions for full recovery. Your progress is closely monitored by our podiatrist at every visit to ensure the treatment stays targeted and effective.
What is the best thing to wear for heel pain?
When treating plantar fasciitis, we provide a curated list of recommended footwear, personally selected by our podiatrist. In general, we suggest shoes that have a firm heel counter, good arch support, and a stable, flat outer sole.
For athletes or individuals who spend long hours on their feet, extra support may be necessary such as 3D-printed, podiatrist-designed full custom orthotics.
At Feet First Podiatry, we offer a full range of treatment options for various foot conditions and lower limb problems, all tailored to get you moving pain-free again.
Is heel pain due to uric acid?
No.
Heel pain is usually not caused by uric acid buildup.
Gout, which is related to uric acid, typically affects the big toe joint, not the heel.
Can heel pain go away on its own?
Yes, heel pain can improve on its own, as long as you stop the activities that are putting stress on your feet. For example, travelling, pregnancy, carrying heavy weight temporarily, or taking part in social-event marathons.
How to tell if plantar fasciitis is healing?
You will know plantar fasciitis is healing when you no longer feel that sharp pain with your first step out of bed in the morning. Your calf muscles will feel more relaxed, and the pain’s intensity and how often it comes will reduce significantly. You might also notice less stiffness and tenderness around your heel.
Is it better to rest or walk with plantar fasciitis?
Rest will be your best friend, and your feet will definitely thank you for it.
Which exercise is best for heel pain?
Toe Towel Stretch
Sit with legs extended.
Loop a towel around the ball of your foot.
Gently pull the towel toward you while keeping the knee straight.
Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times per foot.

Calf Stretch
Stand barefoot.
Slowly lift the arch of your foot without curling your toes.
Hold for 5 seconds, then release.
Repeat 10–15 times per foot.
