Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses targeted acoustic waves to stimulate biological processes involved in healing and tissue repair. In podiatry, it can be used as part of a treatment plan for certain causes of foot and heel pain, including plantar fasciitis and tendon-related conditions.
Rather than simply treating the location where you feel pain, Dr. Alvin Cowans first determines what is causing your symptoms and whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your diagnosis.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Shockwave therapy delivers controlled acoustic energy to a targeted area of injured or painful tissue. The treatment is designed to stimulate the body's natural healing response and promote processes involved in tissue repair.
Treatment is performed in the office and does not require an incision. Because different foot and ankle conditions can cause similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important before deciding whether shockwave therapy should be part of your treatment plan.
What Foot Conditions May Be Treated With Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy may be considered for certain musculoskeletal foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis, heel pain associated with plantar fascia problems, and some tendon-related conditions.
However, not every type of foot or heel pain should be treated with shockwave therapy. Heel pain, for example, can have several different causes. The appropriate treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis rather than the symptom alone.
What Happens During Shockwave Therapy?
During treatment, acoustic waves are directed to the targeted area using a handheld device. Treatment is performed without an incision, injection, or anesthesia in many cases, and patients can typically leave the office after their session.
The number of treatments recommended can vary based on the condition being treated, its severity, how long symptoms have been present, and the individual's response to treatment.
Is Shockwave Therapy Only for Chronic Foot Pain?
No. Shockwave therapy should not automatically be considered a treatment only for chronic conditions. Whether it is appropriate depends on the specific diagnosis, stage of the condition, symptoms, and individual patient.
Dr. Cowans evaluates these factors when determining whether shockwave therapy or another treatment approach is appropriate.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for My Foot or Heel Pain?
The first step is determining why your foot or heel hurts. Plantar fasciitis, tendon problems, injuries, biomechanical issues, and other conditions can produce similar symptoms but may require different treatment approaches.
At Optimum Podiatry, Dr. Cowans evaluates the source of your pain and develops an individualized treatment plan. When appropriate, shockwave therapy may be incorporated as a nonsurgical treatment option to support healing and recovery.
