The shockwaves are abrupt, high-amplitude pulses of mechanical energy, similar to sound waves, generated by an electromagnetic coil. Similar technology using focused higher energies is used to break up kidney and gallstones, and is termed lithotripsy. “Extracorporeal” means that the shockwaves are generated externally to the body and transmitted from a pad through the skin.
Shockwave therapy is thought to work by inducing microtrauma to the tissue that is injured. This microtrauma initiates a healing response by the body. This healing response causes blood vessel formation and increases the delivery of nutrients to the affected areas. It stimulates the body’s own repair process and can relieve the symptoms of common conditions such as plantar fasciitis and numerous tendon pathologies.
Conditions we treat with Shockwave
Plantar fasciitis/ fasciopathy
Plantar heel pain syndrome
Insertional Achilles
Posterior tibial tendinopathy
Most patients feel results right away and need only two or three treatments over six to 12 weeks for complete healing and lasting symptom resolution. The beauty of ESWT is that if it is going to work, it likely will start working immediately after the first treatment. So, if you don’t start seeing results right away, we can investigate other potential causes of your symptoms.
It is not uncommon to feel a bit sore afterward and have some bruising at the treatment area. After the procedure, it is best to avoid anti-inflammatory medications, such as Advil because stimulating the inflammation cascade is part of the healing process activated by ESWT. Other than that, you can go about your normal activities, generally including exercise if you feel up to it.
