Is Chronic Heel Pain Stopping You? Shockwave Therapy Might Be The Answer

Heel pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages, often making simple tasks like walking or standing uncomfortable. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and heel spurs are frequent culprits behind the pain. Traditional treatments such as rest, stretching, and orthotics may offer pain relief, but when pain persists in chronic cases, more advanced interventions are needed to increase blood flow to the area and promote cell regeneration.

One treatment is shockwave therapy, a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to target and heal damaged tissues. Shockwave therapy has gained popularity for its effectiveness in reducing pain and promoting faster recovery in acute and particularly for stubborn & chronic cases of heel pain. However, what does the science and literature say?

First of all, what is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the healing process in targeted areas of the body. In the case of heel pain, shockwave therapy focuses on the affected area, promoting increased blood flow and tissue regeneration to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

What does the scientific literature say?

• Systematic reviews which are large scientific studies consistently show that shockwave therapy (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy - ESWT) is effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis. Studies often report significant improvements in both pain relief and overall foot function compared to placebo or conservative treatments.

• For example, a 2017 meta-analysis published in the journal Foot & Ankle International reviewed multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and concluded that shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis, particularly when other treatments fail.

How does it compare to other treatments?

• Systematic reviews often compare Shockwave to other conservative treatments like physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and orthotics. Most studies suggest that shockwave therapy is particularly beneficial for chronic cases where these other treatments have failed.

• In other cases, studies show that combination therapy of shockwave, orthotics and exercise rehabilitation was found to be highly effective.

How many sessions are needed and do the results last?

The sessions required are dependent how chronic the condition is, this remains at the discretion of the podiatrist, however, changes are usually seen between 1-3 sessions.

Long-term results are generally positive. Follow-up studies have shown that the pain relief from shockwave therapy can last for months to years, with many patients experiencing permanent relief. This has made it an attractive option for people with persistent heel pain who are looking for a non-invasive alternative to surgery.

What is the process of Shockwave Therapy?

Assessment of the area is performed first. During a shockwave therapy session, a trained healthcare professional will apply gel to the area being treated. A device then delivers controlled pulses of sound waves to the targeted area, which may cause mild discomfort but is generally well-tolerated by patients. The entire process is quick, often lasting around 15-20 minutes per session, making it a convenient option for individuals with busy schedules.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Heel Pain

• Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy does not require incisions or downtime, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately.

• Pain Relief: By targeting the source of heel pain, shockwave therapy provides effective pain relief, enabling individuals to experience comfort and improved mobility.

• Fast Results: Many patients report significant improvement after just a few sessions, with long-lasting results that enhance overall quality of life.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

If you've been struggling with chronic heel pain and traditional treatments have not provided the relief you seek, shockwave therapy may be a game-changer for you. However, it's essential to consult with us to assess whether shockwave therapy is the right treatment for you.

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