Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that has become a game-changer for people suffering from plantar fasciitis. This technique uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in the damaged tissues of the foot, particularly the heel. At Leading Health Podiatry, we’ve seen remarkable results in reducing pain and speeding up recovery for patients struggling with chronic plantar fasciitis.

Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis?

Yes, shockwave therapy has been proven to be highly effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Studies show that this treatment can reduce pain by up to 72% and improve function. For many patients, shockwave therapy provides significant relief, especially when other treatments have failed.

Our patients at Leading Health Podiatry benefit from this innovative treatment, which helps not only with pain relief but also encourages the body to repair the damaged tissues. Shockwave therapy promotes the regeneration of the fascia (the connective tissue) and reduces inflammation, providing lasting results.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Help with Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation and micro-tears in the fascia tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Shockwave therapy helps to treat plantar fasciitis by delivering focused energy to the affected area. This leads to several key benefits:

  • Pain Reduction: Shockwave therapy helps reduce both the acute pain and chronic discomfort of plantar fasciitis by targeting the injured tissue.
  • Improved Healing: By stimulating blood flow and collagen production, shockwave therapy accelerates the healing of the damaged fascia.
  • Reduced Inflammation: The acoustic waves help to reverse inflammation in the plantar fascia, which is a major cause of pain.
  • Restoration of Function: Over time, shockwave therapy helps restore normal function to the foot, enabling you to return to regular activities.

Why Choose Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who have not found relief from traditional treatments like rest, ice, or orthotics. Here’s why it works:

  • Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy does not require cutting or injections, making it a safe and straightforward treatment option.
  • No medication or anesthesia: There is no need for drugs or anesthesia, and patients typically experience little to no downtime.
  • Fast Treatment: Each session typically lasts 10-20 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
  • Fewer Sessions: Most patients need just 3-6 sessions to see results, with sessions spaced one week apart.

What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

During the treatment, a gel is applied to the foot, and the shockwave device is placed on the heel or arch, depending on where the pain is concentrated. High-energy pulses are delivered to the affected area. While you may feel mild discomfort, similar to pressing on a sore spot, shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated.

The treatment is quick, with sessions lasting about 20-30 minutes. You can resume regular activities immediately after your appointment.

FAQ

  • How many sessions will I need? Typically, 3-6 sessions of shockwave therapy are needed for plantar fasciitis. Your podiatrist will tailor the treatment plan based on the severity of your condition.

  • Does it hurt? Shockwave therapy may cause mild tenderness, but it is generally well-tolerated. Any discomfort is usually brief and subsides after the treatment.

  • Is shockwave therapy safe for plantar fasciitis? Yes, shockwave therapy is FDA and TGA approved and is considered very safe for treating plantar fasciitis. It is non-invasive, so there is no risk of infection, and it has fewer risks compared to surgery.

  • Can shockwave therapy eliminate my plantar fasciitis pain? Many patients experience significant pain relief after shockwave therapy, and it can help restore function in the foot. While results vary, many people see a dramatic improvement after completing the treatment.

Why Choose Leading Health Podiatry for Shockwave Therapy?

At Leading Health Podiatry, we specialize in the treatment of plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions. Our experienced team of podiatrists will assess your specific needs and determine whether shockwave therapy is right for you. We are committed to providing the most effective treatments to help you recover quickly and return to pain-free movement.

Get Relief from Plantar Fasciitis Today

If you’re tired of dealing with the pain of plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact Leading Health Podiatry to schedule an appointment and learn more about how shockwave therapy can help you live a pain-free life. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and recovery.

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