Those suffering from the painful condition of plantar fasciitis may find its underlying cause to be a mystery. If you’re struggling with heel pain, look no further for relief than extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). In this guide, we will examine what ESWT is and how it can help make your plantar fasciitis manageable so that you can take control of your life again!

What is extracorporeal shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis

Introducing Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), more commonly known as shockwave treatment, an innovative and conservative approach to treating plantar fasciitis of the foot. This method consists of high-energy sound waves that are passed through the heel to rev up recovery in inflammation-ridden plantar fascia tissues. The mechanical shockwaves promote blood circulation at this site which accelerates healing, so you can be back on your feet faster than ever.

Shockwave treatment, also known as ESWT (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy), is a non-invasive way to treat soft tissue injuries without having to cut the skin or introduce medical devices into the body. Rather than destroying tissues, this method actually helps promote regeneration by stimulating pain transmission nerves and prompting repair mechanisms in your body. As an added bonus, it can help reduce pain and sensitivity levels almost instantly.

What is plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating foot condition that comes from stretching or using the plantar fascia ligament too much. This can result in small tears, which then cause pain and inflammation. It’s one of the most common issues for people who are always on their feet – such as active adults and athletes – but it also frequently affects middle-aged men and women. Walking with this injury can be difficult due to its location along the heel and bottom of the foot, making proper treatment essential for those suffering from Plantar Fasciitis.

Related article about Plantar Fasciitis.

Plantar fascia’s anatomy

Your plantar fascia is a resilient ligament located on the bottom of your foot, stretching from the heel and then fusing into five individual strands which are connected to each toe. This remarkable piece functions as an excellent shock absorber for your body while also acting like a bowstring – supporting the arch of your foot, and stabilizing it during movement.

 

Indications for ESWT treatment for plantar fasciitis

When other traditional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, orthotics, and night splints fail to provide relief after 6 months of use, Shockwave treatment is recommended as a non-surgical option. Patients who choose this form of therapy often find that their pain levels have significantly decreased and their mobility has improved much more than when they tried conservative measures.

Preparation for ESWT treatment for plantar fasciitis

Prior to receiving shockwave treatment for plantar fasciitis, it is important to ensure that the following steps are taken:

 

• • An in-depth evaluation of your medical background to establish if the procedure is suitable for you.

• • It is essential to make your doctor aware of any medications, vitamins, or supplements that you are currently taking.

• • To ensure a successful procedure, your doctor will recommend ceasing the use of anti-inflammatories such as aspirin or ibuprofen at least 5 days before you come in.

• • After the surgical procedure has been carefully outlined and you have a full understanding of what’s to come, you will be asked for written consent.

Procedure for ESWT treatment for plantar fasciitis

Shockwave therapy is a painless and non-invasive outpatient procedure that doesn’t require an overnight stay. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need two to three sessions for maximum efficacy. At each session, these steps will be followed:

 

• • For optimal relaxation and comfort, you should lay in a prone position with a pillow beneath your legs.

• • To ensure your comfort, local and/or sedation anesthesia may be used in tandem with high-energy shock waves.

• • Applying ultrasound gel to the heel area enhances the transmission of sound waves, improving results and accuracy.

• • A hand-held probe that is connected to a shockwave machine then transmits the shockwaves.

• • The probe is positioned above the heel area while releasing compressed air pulses in a consistent pattern through the gel.

• • The shock waves permeate the outer layer of the heel to help promote healing.

• • During the procedure, you could experience some sensation of discomfort and hear a tapping sound from the probe.

• • On average, the treatment takes 10 to 20 minutes per foot for optimal results.

Aftercare and Guidance for a Successful Recovery.

Following treatment, you’ll be able to walk and quickly return to your daily life. Nevertheless, it would be best if you spoke with a medical professional first for advice regarding:

 

• • To ensure optimal recovery, taking a break and elevating the foot for at least one or two days is strongly recommended.

• • To ensure a speedy recovery, it is best to abstain from any rigorous activities, weightlifting, or high-impact workouts for at least two days.

• • To ensure the best results, gentle stretching exercises are highly recommended on the day after your procedure.

• • Take a break from running for the next seven days.

• • For the next two days, abstain from using ice therapy or taking any anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin.

• • Taking over-the-counter pain medications can help alleviate painful symptoms and provide comfort.

• • Remain disciplined and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to oversee your progress.

Risks and complications of ESWT treatment for plantar fasciitis

Shockwave treatment is usually secure; nonetheless, risks and difficulties may arise around the heel area:

 

• • Discomfort

• • Swelling

• • Bruising

• • Slight bleeding

• • Numbness

• • The risk of Achilles tendon rupture is minimal

Conclusion

In conclusion, extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a safe and effective procedure for treating the pain of plantar fasciitis. However, it is important to take all necessary precautions and perform any pre-treatment evaluations before receiving this treatment. Following the steps outlined in this article will ensure that you have a successful recovery from your ESWT treatment. With proper post-treatment care, you can expect to achieve long-lasting results