Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the sole of the foot from heel to toes. It causes heel pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking after rest.
Plantar Fasciitis
What is Plantar Fasciitis?What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Treatment for Plantar FasciitisTreatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) offers a gentle, non-surgical treatment when stretching, orthotics, or medication have not provided relief.
Unlike high-dose radiation used for cancer, LDRT uses a much smaller, highly targeted dose—around 3 Gray (Gy)—delivered over six short sessions. It’s painless, non-invasive, and typically free of significant side effects.
How LDRT works
LDRT can:
- Reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia
- Ease heel pain and tenderness
- Improve mobility and walking comfort
“Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of persistent heel pain. Low-dose radiotherapy can safely reduce pain and restore function, helping patients return to everyday activities.”
~ A/Prof Peter Gorayski, Radiation Oncologist
Who might benefitWho might benefit
LDRT may be considered for people who:
- Have chronic heel pain unrelieved by stretching, orthotics, or medication
- Are not suitable for, or prefer to avoid, surgery
- Seek a low-risk alternative to long-term pain medication
What to expect
- Consultation and assessment – Your specialist will review symptoms, imaging, and medical history
- Personalised plan – A treatment plan is tailored to target the affected tendon
- Treatment sessions – Each session is quick, painless, and requires no anaesthetic
- Follow-up care – We review your progress and provide additional support as needed
Most people can continue normal activities after each visit
Side effects
Because the radiation dose is extremely low, side effects are rare and mild. Possible temporary effects include slight skin warmth, redness, or brief fatigue. These usually settle quickly.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
What is low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) and how does it help Plantar Pasciitis?
LDRT is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses very low doses of radiation to reduce inflammation and ease pain. It can help improve mobility and make daily activities more comfortable. LDRT is intended to complement existing treatments, such as physiotherapy, exercise programs, or medication, rather than replace them.
Is LDRT safe for treating pain associated with Plantar Pasciitis?
Yes. LDRT uses a very small dose of radiation (about 3 Gray (Gy) total, compared to 60Gy for cancer treatment) which means the risk of side effects is minimal. It has been safely used internationally for more than a decade.
How is LDRT different from radiotherapy used for cancer?
While both use the same technology, LDRT uses a much lower dose of radiation. Cancer treatments aim to destroy cancer cells, whereas LDRT targets inflammation in the tendon, helping reduce pain and stiffness. The ultra-low dose used in LDRT means the risk of side effects is very low.
What happens during LDRT treatment sessions?
LDRT is delivered as a quick, outpatient treatment. You’ll lie on a treatment bed while a machine delivers radiation precisely to the affected area. The procedure is painless, does not require anaesthetic, and typically takes only a few minutes. Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after each session.
Are there side effects from LDRT?
Side effects are rare and minimal because of the very low radiation dose used. Some patients may notice mild skin changes, but these effects are uncommon and usually short-lived. Your clinician will discuss any potential risks with you during your consultation.
Why choose Icon?
At Icon, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality care, close to home. We combine advanced radiation technology with a team of experienced clinicians who specialise in treatments like low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT).
We’re here to:
- provide care grounded in international evidence and clinical expertise
- deliver treatment that is safe, precise, and tailored to your needs, and
- work alongside your existing care team to ensure a coordinated approach.
Our focus is on helping you move more comfortably and regain quality of life, supported by a team who puts your care first.
ReferencesReferences
For a full list of references, click here.
- Better Health Channel. (2023). Heel pain – plantar fasciitis. State Government of Victoria. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/foot-problems-heel-pain#plantar-fasciitis
- NHS Inform. (2024). Plantar fasciitis. NHS Scotland. Retrieved from https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/foot-problems/plantar-fasciitis
- Micke, O., et al. (2025). Low-dose radiotherapy for painful musculoskeletal disorders: Updated evidence and clinical guidance. Clinical & Translational Radiation Oncology, Springer.
- Trott, K.R. (2024). Radiation therapy for benign diseases: Evidence and experience in Europe. Advances in Oncology.
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