A deep dive into Shockwave Therapy ⚡
Is it just me, or is January absolutely flying?
For me, January has taken me in several exciting directions – including a deep dive into the world of advanced Shockwave Therapy. This safe and non-invasive treatment widely used for tendon, and soft tissue, is gold standard when it comes to treating long standing foot and lower limb pain. Patients report decreased pain, increased movement, all leading to a better quality of life. It’s the best I could wish for as a passionate Podiatrist!
Conditions that can be helped with Shockwave Therapy
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain/fasciopathy)
A common cause of heel pain is damage to parts of the tissues on the bottom of the foot, resulting in pain and sometimes swelling. The band of tissue from your heel to your toes is your plantar fascia – so this pain is sometimes known as plantar fasciitis.
Heel pain often feels worst first thing in the morning or after rest and can limit walking, work and exercise. Early assessment helps prevent chronic pain and prolonged recovery.
Achilles tendinopathy (tendinitis)
Achilles tendinitis and tendinopathy refer to pain and degeneration affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is commonly caused by overuse, sudden increases in activity, poor foot biomechanics or inadequate footwear. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, swelling and tenderness, particularly first thing in the morning or during activity.
For me, January has taken me in several exciting directions – including a deep dive into the world of advanced Shockwave Therapy. This safe and non-invasive treatment widely used for tendon, and soft tissue, is gold standard when it comes to treating long standing foot and lower limb pain. Patients report decreased pain, increased movement, all leading to a better quality of life. It’s the best I could wish for as a passionate Podiatrist!
| Who can benefit from Shockwave Therapy? The healing of many and painful common foot conditions can be expedited with the help of Shockwave Therapy. First, an accurate diagnosis is essential. Here in the clinic, our Podiatrists can diagnose your condition and advise on reducing pain and restoring the tissues to their full health. Shockwave Therapy is an evidence-based treatment that can significantly reduce pain, stimulate tissue repair and cell growth, and accelerate healing. The most recent evidence suggests 4 sessions (scheduled close together) yield the best and fastest results. In addition we will ALWAYS offer advice on footwear, activities to avoid and which to increase (yes really!), along with useful advice on injury prevention and offloading the tissues with the addition of insoles and orthotics and of course strengthening drills when it’s time! |
Conditions that can be helped with Shockwave Therapy
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain/fasciopathy)
A common cause of heel pain is damage to parts of the tissues on the bottom of the foot, resulting in pain and sometimes swelling. The band of tissue from your heel to your toes is your plantar fascia – so this pain is sometimes known as plantar fasciitis.
Heel pain often feels worst first thing in the morning or after rest and can limit walking, work and exercise. Early assessment helps prevent chronic pain and prolonged recovery.
Achilles tendinopathy (tendinitis)
Achilles tendinitis and tendinopathy refer to pain and degeneration affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is commonly caused by overuse, sudden increases in activity, poor foot biomechanics or inadequate footwear. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, swelling and tenderness, particularly first thing in the morning or during activity.
Conditions that can be helped with Shockwave Therapy (continued)
Forefoot Pain
Forefoot pain refers to discomfort felt across the ball of the foot and toes and can have several underlying causes. Common conditions include Morton’s neuroma, where a nerve between the long toe bones becomes irritated or thickened; bursitis, which is inflammation of soft tissue between the metatarsal bones; joint synovitis affecting the ball of the foot; plantar plate injuries involving ligaments under the toes; and sesamoiditis, irritation of the small bones beneath the big toe.
Symptoms vary depending on the cause and may include aching, sharp or burning pain, tingling, numbness or the sensation of walking on a pebble. Pain may develop gradually with activity or footwear pressure, or come on suddenly following trauma, a trip or an increase in walking, running or hiking. Forefoot pain can significantly affect daily comfort, exercise and footwear choices if left untreated. Given the wide range of possible causes, accurate diagnosis is essential – so book with our Podiatry who will identify the cause.
Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
Shin splints cause pain along the inner edge of the shin bone and are commonly linked to repetitive impact activities such as running or brisk walking. They often develop due to overload, poor lower limb biomechanics or inadequate footwear, and can worsen with continued activity if not addressed early. A runner’s worst nightmare (and frequent foe) – and an ideal candidate for shockwave therapy.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain in the ankle and foot area
Chronic foot and ankle pain refers to ongoing discomfort that persists beyond normal healing times, often due to tendon overload, joint irritation or long-standing biomechanical strain. Pain may fluctuate with activity levels and can limit walking, exercise and daily comfort. Targeted treatment aims to reduce pain, restore movement and support long-term tissue health.
So what are you waiting for?
Here in the clinic, we understand what a pain in the foot any of these conditions can be - and if you're suffering from one, then you do too! Book your first Shockwave Therapy appointment online, and get ready to gallop into the year of the horse, leaving your pain in past.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Forefoot Pain
Forefoot pain refers to discomfort felt across the ball of the foot and toes and can have several underlying causes. Common conditions include Morton’s neuroma, where a nerve between the long toe bones becomes irritated or thickened; bursitis, which is inflammation of soft tissue between the metatarsal bones; joint synovitis affecting the ball of the foot; plantar plate injuries involving ligaments under the toes; and sesamoiditis, irritation of the small bones beneath the big toe.
Symptoms vary depending on the cause and may include aching, sharp or burning pain, tingling, numbness or the sensation of walking on a pebble. Pain may develop gradually with activity or footwear pressure, or come on suddenly following trauma, a trip or an increase in walking, running or hiking. Forefoot pain can significantly affect daily comfort, exercise and footwear choices if left untreated. Given the wide range of possible causes, accurate diagnosis is essential – so book with our Podiatry who will identify the cause.
Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
Shin splints cause pain along the inner edge of the shin bone and are commonly linked to repetitive impact activities such as running or brisk walking. They often develop due to overload, poor lower limb biomechanics or inadequate footwear, and can worsen with continued activity if not addressed early. A runner’s worst nightmare (and frequent foe) – and an ideal candidate for shockwave therapy.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain in the ankle and foot area
Chronic foot and ankle pain refers to ongoing discomfort that persists beyond normal healing times, often due to tendon overload, joint irritation or long-standing biomechanical strain. Pain may fluctuate with activity levels and can limit walking, exercise and daily comfort. Targeted treatment aims to reduce pain, restore movement and support long-term tissue health.
So what are you waiting for?
Here in the clinic, we understand what a pain in the foot any of these conditions can be - and if you're suffering from one, then you do too! Book your first Shockwave Therapy appointment online, and get ready to gallop into the year of the horse, leaving your pain in past.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Posted on 22 January 2026Start the year feeling better – not busier!
Feeling overwhelmed by the flood of ‘new year, new you’ messages? You’re not alone. Here at the clinic, we’re taking a far gentler (and more sensible!) approach.
It’s been a grey start to the year, with plunging temperatures, chaos on the roads, and a lot of uncertainty in the wider world. At times like these, slowing down is not only sensible – it’s essential. As we move into this next phase, taking care of yourself first is a very good place to begin. After all, caring for those we love comes more easily when we aren’t pouring from an empty cup. So remember to check in with yourself – and then with us.
We’re still in the very depths of winter: a season that naturally calls for rest, calm, and intentional self-care. January doesn’t have to mean turning your entire world upside down just because Instagram says so.
It’s been a grey start to the year, with plunging temperatures, chaos on the roads, and a lot of uncertainty in the wider world. At times like these, slowing down is not only sensible – it’s essential. As we move into this next phase, taking care of yourself first is a very good place to begin. After all, caring for those we love comes more easily when we aren’t pouring from an empty cup. So remember to check in with yourself – and then with us.
We’re still in the very depths of winter: a season that naturally calls for rest, calm, and intentional self-care. January doesn’t have to mean turning your entire world upside down just because Instagram says so.
Looking ahead: an exciting shift for our 30th year
This year marks a very special milestone for us – our 30th year on Broadway Market (yes, really!). To celebrate, we’re making an exciting shift in how we do things.
We’ll be moving away from some of the complementary therapies we’ve previously offered, allowing us to focus more deeply on what we’re most passionate about:
Podiatry, Foot Health, Osteopathy, Colonic Hydrotherapy, and my personal favourite powerhouse – Vitamin B12 injections.
These disciplines better reflect our commitment to supporting long-term health, injury rehabilitation, disease prevention, and whole-person wellbeing.
So, if you haven’t entered January with quite the enthusiasm and bounce of my terrific miniature dachshund Dolly (pictured here!), please don’t worry. Get in touch in whatever way feels most comfortable. You can book all treatments online, and if you can’t find a time that suits, let us know – we’ll always do our best to open up a slot for you.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
This year marks a very special milestone for us – our 30th year on Broadway Market (yes, really!). To celebrate, we’re making an exciting shift in how we do things.
We’ll be moving away from some of the complementary therapies we’ve previously offered, allowing us to focus more deeply on what we’re most passionate about:
Podiatry, Foot Health, Osteopathy, Colonic Hydrotherapy, and my personal favourite powerhouse – Vitamin B12 injections.
These disciplines better reflect our commitment to supporting long-term health, injury rehabilitation, disease prevention, and whole-person wellbeing.
So, if you haven’t entered January with quite the enthusiasm and bounce of my terrific miniature dachshund Dolly (pictured here!), please don’t worry. Get in touch in whatever way feels most comfortable. You can book all treatments online, and if you can’t find a time that suits, let us know – we’ll always do our best to open up a slot for you.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Posted on 8 January 2026The gift of relaxation and rejuvenation 🎁
Now that the chill has arrived and the lights are twinkling, the festive feeling is finally kicking in...
I’ll admit that when the seasonal advertisements appeared before Halloween had finished, I wasn’t quite ready… but now I’m embracing it! Maybe you feel the same?
While the Christmas markets are in full swing, and the pressure of finding the ‘perfect’ present creeps in, I wanted to share a gentle reminder:
Holistic Health gift vouchers make thoughtful, meaningful gifts - and here’s why they’re such a wonderful choice.
2025 has been BIG for so many of us. A moment to pause, reset and feel cared for is something most people would truly appreciate right now. That’s exactly what our gift vouchers offer.
A note on timings:
No Black Friday scarcity tactics here! The last day to buy and receive a Gift Voucher is Saturday the 20th of December by 1:30pm.
But last minute buyers need not dismay - just download or print our IOU template for your recipient, send us an email to transfer your payment by Stripe, and we’ll issue their voucher when we’re back on Saturday the 3rd of January 2026. Easy!
I’ll admit that when the seasonal advertisements appeared before Halloween had finished, I wasn’t quite ready… but now I’m embracing it! Maybe you feel the same?
While the Christmas markets are in full swing, and the pressure of finding the ‘perfect’ present creeps in, I wanted to share a gentle reminder:
Holistic Health gift vouchers make thoughtful, meaningful gifts - and here’s why they’re such a wonderful choice.
2025 has been BIG for so many of us. A moment to pause, reset and feel cared for is something most people would truly appreciate right now. That’s exactly what our gift vouchers offer.
A note on timings:
No Black Friday scarcity tactics here! The last day to buy and receive a Gift Voucher is Saturday the 20th of December by 1:30pm.
But last minute buyers need not dismay - just download or print our IOU template for your recipient, send us an email to transfer your payment by Stripe, and we’ll issue their voucher when we’re back on Saturday the 3rd of January 2026. Easy!
Why our gift vouchers are the perfect present:
☎️ 020 7275 8434
📧 info@holistichealthhackney.co.uk
Or pop in and see us on Broadway Market, London Fields.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
- Freedom to choose – whether it’s Massage, Reflexology, Acupuncture, or any of our relaxing or clinical treatments.
- A clutter-free gift – our vouchers are available digitally, or on our beautiful recyclable card stock.
- Flexible for every budget – from £10 or £100, whether you’re Secret Santa or a Doting Daughter.
- Support local and independent business - make a difference to your local community!
- Help someone you love to prioritise themselves – addressing the pain and anxiety that contributes to chronic conditions such as burnout, insomnia and pain conditions.
- Christmas-ready timing - we will gladly forward-date the voucher to begin on the 25th of December – just ask us when you buy.
Not just a treat — our gift vouchers are a meaningful way to nurture someone’s health and joy.
Get in touch to purchase yours:☎️ 020 7275 8434
📧 info@holistichealthhackney.co.uk
Or pop in and see us on Broadway Market, London Fields.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Posted on 27 November 2025Keeping you moving well into winter
With Autumn well and truly bedded in, we’ve been marvelling at the beautiful colours and crisper walks!
With colder weather we often see an increase in old injury flares which can be more painful when cold and that leads to a downturn in activity, BUT it’s our job to keep you moving - even when it’s tempting to hibernate.
So, should you slow down, yes and no… in most cases gentle movement is helpful in aiding recovery along with preventing new injuries - our bodies are made to move. Motion is lotion 😊
Our bodies also benefit from massage, acupuncture, podiatry massage, and shockwave therapy so be sure to factor in hands on body work to assist with healing and keep you supple and pain free.
Shockwave Therapy helps stubborn tendon and soft tissue pain such as heel pain including plantar fasciitis, shin splints, knee pain, Achilles injuries and chronic pain. Shockwave is non-invasive, safe and proven to speed up recovery - perfect if pain is slowing you down.
With colder weather we often see an increase in old injury flares which can be more painful when cold and that leads to a downturn in activity, BUT it’s our job to keep you moving - even when it’s tempting to hibernate.
So, should you slow down, yes and no… in most cases gentle movement is helpful in aiding recovery along with preventing new injuries - our bodies are made to move. Motion is lotion 😊
Our bodies also benefit from massage, acupuncture, podiatry massage, and shockwave therapy so be sure to factor in hands on body work to assist with healing and keep you supple and pain free.
Shockwave Therapy helps stubborn tendon and soft tissue pain such as heel pain including plantar fasciitis, shin splints, knee pain, Achilles injuries and chronic pain. Shockwave is non-invasive, safe and proven to speed up recovery - perfect if pain is slowing you down.
Right now your movement might not be as appealing as a sunny hike at the beach, but even a walk around London Fields in the morning (to get the Vitamin D synthesis going!) is going to do you the world of good.
So as the weather dips remember that even a short morning walk can boost circulation, mood, and Vitamin D levels. Keep moving - your body will thank you.
Sunday is World Acupuncture Day!
Acupuncture supports the body in so many way from pain reduction and relief, to fertility support from conception, IVF, and pregnancy. It is also a deeply relaxing treatment which can help with anxiety, depression and lots more. Book here to experience the benefits for yourself.
So as the weather dips remember that even a short morning walk can boost circulation, mood, and Vitamin D levels. Keep moving - your body will thank you.
Sunday is World Acupuncture Day!
Acupuncture supports the body in so many way from pain reduction and relief, to fertility support from conception, IVF, and pregnancy. It is also a deeply relaxing treatment which can help with anxiety, depression and lots more. Book here to experience the benefits for yourself.
Posted on 13 November 2025Get in to the ‘yin’
Well Hello November! How did that happen?
We’re truly into the yin part of the year now – slower, darker, colder. With so many of us living at full power all of the time, should we really be celebrating being busy quite so much? I am very guilty of this and have been trying to find ways to stop and breathe more often-during the day, at the end of the day and most importantly for me, at the beginning of the day. Taking a breath, drinking hot tea in my cold garden and clearing my head before the busy begins… perhaps you can join me?
As we move deeper into this beautiful golden season and slowly adapt to a new early darkness, autumn, our (already fragile) sleep patterns often get disrupted. Shorter days mean less daylight, which leads to lower serotonin (our mood-regulating neurotransmitter) and higher melatonin (our sleep-inducing hormone). The result? More fatigue, dips in focus, and sometimes a drop in mood. It’s no wonder many of us crave more rest and find ourselves reaching for an extra cup of tea (or coffee!) just to keep going.
This is the perfect moment to tune into your nervous system. Treatments that we offer at Holistic Health such as Massage, Acupuncture, and Reflexology are deeply relaxing – they signal safety to the body and help release both mental and physical tension. Prioritising good sleep hygiene can make a big difference too: dimming the lights earlier, limiting screen time before bed, and giving yourself permission to switch your phone off for a while. Even small acts of disconnection can have a powerful impact on your sense of calm and your ability to rest deeply.
We’re truly into the yin part of the year now – slower, darker, colder. With so many of us living at full power all of the time, should we really be celebrating being busy quite so much? I am very guilty of this and have been trying to find ways to stop and breathe more often-during the day, at the end of the day and most importantly for me, at the beginning of the day. Taking a breath, drinking hot tea in my cold garden and clearing my head before the busy begins… perhaps you can join me?
As we move deeper into this beautiful golden season and slowly adapt to a new early darkness, autumn, our (already fragile) sleep patterns often get disrupted. Shorter days mean less daylight, which leads to lower serotonin (our mood-regulating neurotransmitter) and higher melatonin (our sleep-inducing hormone). The result? More fatigue, dips in focus, and sometimes a drop in mood. It’s no wonder many of us crave more rest and find ourselves reaching for an extra cup of tea (or coffee!) just to keep going.
This is the perfect moment to tune into your nervous system. Treatments that we offer at Holistic Health such as Massage, Acupuncture, and Reflexology are deeply relaxing – they signal safety to the body and help release both mental and physical tension. Prioritising good sleep hygiene can make a big difference too: dimming the lights earlier, limiting screen time before bed, and giving yourself permission to switch your phone off for a while. Even small acts of disconnection can have a powerful impact on your sense of calm and your ability to rest deeply.
Last week, Kat and I travelled to Stockholm to partake in what would be a transformative yoga retreat in the middle of the forest...
Spending uninterrupted time in nature, plunging into VERY very cold water and finding deep connection in the disconnect. Yes, I switched my phone off for most of the 4 days! Remembering how to switch off, stepping away from constant stimulation, and just being. It reminded me how nourishing it feels to be present without distractions – to let nature, stillness, and breath guide you back to balance. Twice daily yoga (and even a bonus CrossFit session) really hit the mark.
By leaning into these restorative activities, we give ourselves permission to align with the season: to slow down, reflect, rest, and nurture ourselves. Moving with nature, rather than against it, allows us to experience this time of year with more mindfulness, ease, and joy.
If you’re struggling with energy during this seasonal shift, book your Vitamin B12 appointment to support your immunity and wellbeing through this transition.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Spending uninterrupted time in nature, plunging into VERY very cold water and finding deep connection in the disconnect. Yes, I switched my phone off for most of the 4 days! Remembering how to switch off, stepping away from constant stimulation, and just being. It reminded me how nourishing it feels to be present without distractions – to let nature, stillness, and breath guide you back to balance. Twice daily yoga (and even a bonus CrossFit session) really hit the mark.
By leaning into these restorative activities, we give ourselves permission to align with the season: to slow down, reflect, rest, and nurture ourselves. Moving with nature, rather than against it, allows us to experience this time of year with more mindfulness, ease, and joy.
If you’re struggling with energy during this seasonal shift, book your Vitamin B12 appointment to support your immunity and wellbeing through this transition.
Big love, Tracy
Podiatrist, Mother, Yorkshire Tea addict & Clinic Director
Posted on 30 October 2025