When The Heel Pain Won’t Quit: Tackling Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Chronic plantar fasciitis can be one of the most frustrating running injuries — it lingers, it hurts, and it feels like nothing works. In Episode 6 of The Runner’s Soul, Sharon Miller, podiatrist and runner, dives into advanced strategies for tackling stubborn heel pain.

From why some cases become chronic to targeted treatments like shockwave therapy, PRP injections, and the 10X procedure, Sharon explains what actually helps and what myths to ignore. She also shares the mental tools runners need to stay motivated during long recovery periods.

With practical advice, real patient stories, and her brand-new Foot Care Toolbox, this episode equips you with everything you need to finally get your heels — and your running — back on track.

🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

✔ Why some plantar fasciitis cases become stubborn
✔ The role of delayed treatment, overload, and biomechanics in chronic pain
✔ Advanced treatment options: Shockwave, PRP, 10X procedure, and surgery
✔ The importance of full rehabilitation — not just pain relief
✔ Mental strategies to stay motivated through chronic recovery
✔ How to return smarter, stronger, and pain-free
✔ Foot Care Toolbox: practical tips for daily management
✔ Real patient stories of recovery and comeback

🏃‍♀️ Key Takeaways

• Chronic plantar fasciitis is common, but not permanent
• Persistence and consistency are just as important as the treatment method
• Advanced therapies help when home care alone isn’t enough
• Mental resilience and patience accelerate recovery
• Full rehabilitation — strength, stretching, cross-training — prevents recurrence
• Smart recovery can reshape your running technique for long-term gains

🎧 Who This Episode Is For

• Runners struggling with chronic heel pain
• Anyone stuck in a cycle of plantar fasciitis
• Athletes looking for advanced recovery strategies
• Beginners unsure of how to handle persistent plantar fasciitis
• Anyone wanting actionable, evidence-based tips for long-term foot health

👥 Join the Runner’s Soul Facebook Community

Connect with runners, share your journey, ask questions, and get ongoing support beyond the podcast:

👉 https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17oz7x3jFe/

🔮 Coming Up Next (Season 3)

Next season, we’ll stride into new topics every runner should know about:
✔ Shin splints
✔ Ankle tendon issues
✔ Stress fractures
✔ Runner’s knee
…plus science-backed tips and real-life solutions to keep you running stronger and healthier.