How Shockwave Therapy is Revolutionizing Podiatry
Dealing with chronic, nagging issues can be a real pain in the backside, especially when you feel like nothing is working.
Let me introduce you to Shockwave therapy! Shockwave therapy is a tool that has been out for a bit of time now, and despite it's name, it's not as scary as it sounds!!
What is Shockwave therapy?
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that utilises high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing and tissue regeneration in various parts of the body, including the feet. Shockwave therapy promotes tissue healing by creating microtrauma that initiates the formation of new blood vessels, stimulates nerve endings for pain reduction and breaks down calcification.
Why is Shockwave Therapy a Game Changer in Podiatry?
In podiatry, where chronic pain and long-term injuries can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, shockwave therapy offers a solution that is both effective and non-invasive. This therapy works by creating micro-trauma through high-energy sound waves into the affected area, stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. It increases blood flow, promotes cell regeneration, and breaks down scar tissue—allowing for quicker and more efficient recovery.
Common pathologies shockwave can be used for:Plantar Fasciitis:
- One of the most common causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Shockwave therapy helps reduce this inflammation, providing significant pain relief and aiding in the healing process. It works especially well in chronic cases of plantar fasciitis.
Achilles Tendinopathy:
- This condition, characterized by pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, often plagues runners and athletes. Shockwave therapy promotes healing by stimulating collagen production and improving blood circulation to the tendon.
Morton’s Neuroma:
- Morton’s neuroma involves the thickening of tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, causing sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. Shockwave therapy can alleviate this pain by reducing the thickened tissue and improving foot function
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy in Foot Care:
- Non-Surgical Solution: Avoids the risks and recovery time associated with surgery
- Quick and Convenient: Treatments are usually completed in under 30 minutes, with no downtime required
- Long-Lasting Results: Many patients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions spaced out a week apart
- Minimal Side Effects: Any discomfort during treatment is typically mild and temporary. No large side-effects come about as a result of shockwave
- Can be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities, therefore increasing the speed at which pain is reduced. Some of the other treatment modalities may include: orthotics, manual therapy, exercise prescription and medications
Conclusion
Shockwave therapy is revolutionizing podiatry by providing an effective, non-invasive treatment for a wide range of chronic foot and ankle conditions. It's ability to promote healing, reduce pain, and enhance mobility offers significant benefits for patients seeking relief from persistent musculoskeletal issues. As technology and research continue to advance, shockwave therapy is poised to play an increasingly important role in the future of podiatric care.
If you’re struggling with foot or ankle pain, consult one of our podiatrists to see if shockwave therapy might be the right option for you
