Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition often leads to persistent heel pain, which is usually worse in the morning.
Traditional treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medications are commonly used to manage the condition. However, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has emerged in recent decades as a treatment option.
While it can help some individuals avoid surgery, it isn’t effective for everyone. Understanding how it works and what to expect can help you decide if it’s the right treatment for you.
How Does Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Work?
In extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), high-intensity acoustic energy is applied to inflamed areas. These penetrating waves create intentional, small-scale damage to the tissue, prompting a healing response in the body.
As a result of shockwave therapy, the body can:
- form new blood vessels, improving blood flow and delivering nutrients to the affected area.
- receive hyperstimulation of nerve endings, resulting in pain reduction.
- break down calcium deposits in soft tissue, also known as calcifications.
- increase cell permeability and, thereby, accelerate the healing process.
The ESWT Procedure
Once arriving at your podiatrist’s office for treatment, here is what you can typically expect from the procedure.
- You’ll be asked to remove your socks and shoes and lie flat on your stomach on a cushioned table, with your legs supported by a pillow.
- Local anesthesia will be placed in the heel to prevent you from feeling pain.
- The podiatrist will direct sonic waves to the heel, stimulating your body’s healing response.
At The Foot & Ankle Center, this alternative therapy for heel pain only lasts about 30 minutes, and our experts see a short recovery time associated with it.
Pros and Cons of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy offers a noninvasive solution for plantar fasciitis, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks can help determine if this treatment is the right choice for you.
The benefits of shockwave therapy include the following.
- Noninvasive With Minimal Recovery: This treatment requires minimal preparation and has a short recovery time, making it a convenient option.
- Quick Pain Relief: Many people experience reduced pain soon after treatment.
- Safe With Few Risks: Shockwave therapy is considered safe and has a lower risk of complications compared to medications or surgery.
- Surgery Prevention: It can help individuals avoid more invasive procedures when managing chronic plantar fasciitis.
Now, let’s take a look at the cons of shockwave therapy.
- More Sessions: Multiple treatments are often required to see significant results.
- Temporary Side Effects: Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain or discomfort, bruising, swelling, and numbness.
- Not Suitable for Everyone: While the procedure is safe for several patients, it is not recommended for pregnant women, patients who take medications that interfere with blood clotting, or those with pacemakers, neurological foot disease, or vascular foot disease.
Other Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Shockwave therapy is one of several treatments available for managing plantar fasciitis. The most effective approach depends on the severity of your symptoms and how your body responds to treatment.
Here are other treatment options to consider.
- Instead of running or doing another high-impact activity, go for something low-impact, like cycling or swimming.
- Use crutches or a walking boot to keep you from placing your full weight on your feet if your pain is severe.
- Apply ice to the inflamed area for 15 minutes three or four times a day.
- Wear supportive shoes with built-in arch support, cushioned insoles, and a wide toe box.
- Put custom orthotics in your shoes, which are shoe inserts specially made to fit your feet exactly.
- Wear a night splint to support your foot and reduce motion that can worsen swelling or pain.
- Do at-home exercises to help you gain muscle strength and flexibility.
Reach Out to The Foot & Ankle Center
Your foot condition doesn’t have to hold you back. With its effective pain relief and fast recovery times, ESWT is a transformative treatment option that can help you regain mobility. Reach out to the friendly and knowledgeable podiatrists at The Foot & Ankle Center to see if ESWT is right for you!
Take the step toward a life without foot pain and limitations. Request an appointment online or call us at (314) 487-9300 to get started!