Four prospective, placebo-controlled RCT's comparing extracorporal shock wave therapy to a control were compared. Participants across all studies had plantar fasciitis for a minimum of 3 months and received treatment with extracorporeal shock wave therapy in comparison to a placebo. Results were pooled to determine if extracorporeal shock wave therapy resulted in significant improvement in VAS and Roles Maudsley scores (pain activity rating) compared to baseline. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that following extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), patients exhibited significantly better composite VAS scores and reduction in absolute VAS scores, along with greater success in improving heel pain (after first steps and during daily activities) than the placebo treatment. A significant difference in change from 'excellent or good' was also found in favour of the ESWT group.