If you suffer from the pain of plantar fasciitis, you might have explored options such as medication and even surgery. But did you know that shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis can be a safe and effective treatment option?
It’s a therapy we offer at our clinics, and we’ve seen some great results. Read on to discover more about how we can help relieve the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
This painful condition is caused by repetitive strain or injury to the ligament which connects your heel bone to your toe. This fibrous band is called the plantar fascia, and it supports the arch of your foot, helping to stabilise and stiffen your foot as you walk.
What is shockwave therapy?
During shockwave therapy, mechanical high-vibration sound waves are sent through your skin to a painful or inflamed area. A typical treatment takes around 10 – 20 minutes for each foot treated, and the therapy is delivered via a small handheld device. It is a non-invasive treatment and may help some people avoid surgery or steroid medication.
Is shockwave therapy effective for plantar fasciitis?
Although more research is needed, for many people shockwave therapy offers relief from the pain of plantar fasciitis. The therapy has the benefit of being non-invasive, with little time needed to prepare and recover from it.
In a study of 172 patients, the average reduction in pain score at 3 months was greater in patients who had the procedure (112 patients) than in those who had the placebo treatment (56 patients).
And in a study of 149 patients, 69% of patients who received the therapy reported an ‘excellent’ result (no heel pain), while all patients who had conventional treatment reported some pain, after an average of 64 months
A 2021 study suggests that shockwave therapy is an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, reducing the symptoms of inflammation in the area. And in terms of general effectiveness, shockwave therapy is estimated to offer some symptom relief for about 44% to 80% of people who receive this treatment.
Is shockwave therapy safe?
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) considers this therapy to be safe. There are potential minor and rare side effects including
- Skin reddening
- Pain during and for up to 24 hours after therapy
- Slight bruising
- Very rarely, a risk of rupture to the Achilles tendon
How does shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis work?
In research, shockwave therapy has been shown to
- Create new blood vessels, bringing more blood to combat inflammation.
- Hyperstimulate nerve endings, resulting in immediate pain reduction.
- Break down calcifications.
What can I do after treatment?
You should be able to resume your usual daily activities, and to wear your usual shoes. It is advisable to avoid intensive, high impact sports such as running for 48 hours after treatment.
We offer shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis
Don’t put up with the pain of this condition. Contact us today to explore how shockwave therapy might relieve your symptoms.
