Foot Conditions that Require Shock Wave Treatments

What is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is an  effective non-surgical method of reducing heel pain. It is derived from a technique used today to disintegrate kidney stones, without the use of traditional invasive surgery called lithotripsy. The device delivers  high pressure shock waves  or pressure waves that travel through the skin. Inflamed bone calcifications and soft tissue receive high energy pulses and heal stronger without causing harm to the surrounding tissues. Electricity is not sent into the body. High energy pulsations of ultrasonic waves stimulate the body’s natural self-healing process.

Does this treatment involve medications or surgery?

ESWT means  non-surgical   and may be performed with or without local anaesthetics as necessary.

Who does ESWT benefit?

ESWT is beneficial for patients who have chronic heel pain and have not had much success with traditional therapies including medications, injections, physiotherapy or orthotics. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis or heel spur syndrome, then you  may be a candidate for this treatment.

Who is eligible for this treatment?

A podiatrist such as Sheldon H. Nadal, DPM will determine of you are a candidate for ESWT. This treatment is reserved for special cases where other treatments failed to provide adequate relief of pain. ESWT is a very safe treatment, however, it is not recommended of use of heel pain in children, pregnant women, and people taking medications that inhibit blood clotting.

How long does the treatment take?

  ESWT session lasts for about 15 minutes.  A pressure wave session, without anaesthetics takes up to 15 minutes. Most people will require one session per week for 3-5 weeks. The pressure wave may be combined with laser. In chronic cases, you may require 1-2 shockwave treatments with local anaesthetics.

How soon can results be expected?

 Many patients will notice an improvement after  quickly. Overall healing,  can continue for  6 months following the last treatment.

Are there any side effects with this procedure?

  there are virtually no side effects with ESWT. Some patients may experience a short period of  discomfort following the treatment.

What are the symptoms of heel pain?

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The main sign of plantar fasciitis is pain or stiffness on the bottom of the heel when first standing. The pain is often felt in the bottom inside edge of the heel but can eventually occur anywhere. The plantar fascia attaches to the heel.

Often, patients report that the pain moves around to different areas and can range from a dull ache to a debilitating sharp pain. The condition might come and go or be persistent for months, even years.

For more inquiries on ESWT, call Sheldon Nadal, DPM at (416) 486-9917.