Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that utilizes high-intensity sound waves to stimulate healing and provide pain relief for individuals. It is commonly used in orthopedics and sports medicine and helps with rehabilitation for various musculoskeletal conditions, including those affecting the foot and ankle.
Shockwave therapy has been recognized for its benefits and advantages in pain management, particularly for podiatry conditions. In this article, we are going to talk about some key benefits of this therapy in foot and ankle pain management.
Effective for Chronic Conditions
Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for chronic pain resulting from conditions that affect the tendons and bones. In studies, it has shown positive results in treating Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis.
Targeted Relief
One of the advantages of shockwave therapy is its ability to provide targeted relief. The small handheld device used in the therapy allows podiatrists to accurately target specific areas of foot pain, such as the heel. This focused approach helps in effectively addressing the underlying cause of the pain.
Improved Blood Flow and Reduced Inflammation
The sound waves generated during shockwave therapy can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the affected area. By enhancing blood circulation and reducing inflammation, this therapy helps to speed up the healing process.
Non-Invasive Treatment
Shockwave therapy is considered a non-invasive treatment, which means no injection is used or incision needs to be made to carry out this treatment. It utilizes pulses of energy, or shockwaves, to stimulate a healing response in the body. This makes it a favorable choice for individuals seeking non-surgical alternatives for pain management.
Minimal Side Effects
Shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort or bruising in the treated area, but these effects are temporary and typically subside quickly.
Short Treatment Duration
Another advantage of shockwave therapy is that it typically involves a relatively short treatment duration. Depending on the specific condition and individual needs, several treatment sessions may be recommended, usually spaced out over a few weeks. This allows patients to undergo the therapy without significant disruption to their daily lives.
What Happens During Shockwave Therapy for Foot and Ankle Pain?
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation and Evaluation – Before undergoing shockwave therapy, you will have an initial consultation with a podiatrist or healthcare professional. They will evaluate your foot condition, review your medical history, and determine if it’s an appropriate treatment option for you.
- Preparation – Once shockwave therapy is recommended, the treatment area will be prepared by cleaning the skin and applying gel or ultrasound gel. This helps to ensure proper transmission of the shockwaves and enhance their effectiveness.
- Shockwave Application – The podiatrist will use a handheld device that emits shockwaves. The device is slowly and methodically moved across the affected area, delivering precise pulses of energy to the targeted tissues. You may feel some discomfort or mild pain during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated.
- Number of Sessions – The number of therapy sessions needed can vary depending on the specific foot condition and individual response to treatment. Typically, a series of several sessions are recommended, usually one session per week for a few weeks. Each session is typically over in less than 30 minutes.
- Post-Treatment Care – After each session, your podiatrist may provide instructions for post-treatment care. This may include avoiding high-impact activities, applying ice or heat to the treated area, performing specific exercises or stretches, or using orthotics or supportive footwear. It’s important to follow these instructions to optimize the healing process.
- Monitoring and Follow-up – Throughout the course of shockwave therapy, your podiatrist will closely monitor your progress and assess your response to treatment. They may adjust the treatment plan based on your individual needs.
Shockwave Therapy Near Me in San Antonio, Boerne and Live Oak, TX
If you are suffering from chronic foot pain, the podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas offer shockwave therapy as an in-office treatment. Our foot and ankle doctors will first assess whether you can benefit from this non-invasive procedure. In addition to shockwave therapy, we offer personalized recommendations to maximize the benefits of treatment.
When it comes to foot pain, our doctors are some of the best in the country. To find out how we plan to treat your condition, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist by calling our location nearest you. Alternatively, you can use our online form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you in any one of our podiatry clinics.
