Guide: Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

March

15

by Joe Armeli | Doctor of Physical Therapy

Picture of shockwave therapy machine with title "Does shockwave therapy help plantar fasciitis?"

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects many people, especially physically active people. It is characterized by pain and inflammation in the heel or bottom of the foot and can be debilitating if left untreated. Fortunately, many treatments are available for plantar fasciitis, including shockwave therapy. While shockwave therapy is a new treatment shockwave treatment has shown good results in treating plantar fasciitis.

Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy works for plantar fasciitis by sending impulses to the plantar fascia.

Shockwave therapy is a promising non-invasive treatment for plantar fasciitis, especially for chronic cases that have not responded to conservative treatments. The therapy can stimulate the healing process by producing new healthy cells, making new proteins, and breaking down scar tissue. Shockwave therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated.

What is Shockwave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment for plantar fasciitis. It involves using high-energy shockwaves directed at the affected area to promote healing and reduce pain. These shockwaves are similar to those used in lithotripsy, a procedure to break up kidney stones.

In shockwave therapy, the waves are focused on the plantar fascia to stimulate blood flow and encourage tissue repair. Shockwave therapy can help to stimulate the healing process in the plantar fascia. This is achieved by causing minor irritation to the area, effectively "re-setting" the body's healing response. This stimulation can help promote the growth of new, healthy cells, which is crucial for healing.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Shockwave therapy provides benefits for plantar fasciitis including: new healthy cell growth, new protein growth, and break up of scar tissue.

Despite being a newer therapy, studies have shown it holds much promise in treating plantar fasciitis. But how does it achieve this?

Produces new healthy cells: In cases where plantar fasciitis has become chronic, shockwave therapy can be especially beneficial. Chronic conditions can cause the body to stop producing new healthy cells, which can stall healing. However, introducing shockwave therapy can "restimulate" the body to produce new healthy cells, thereby replacing the injured ones and promoting healing.

Helps Make New Proteins: Another benefit of shockwave therapy is that it can help to make new proteins, which are an essential building block of the body. Without enough proteins, healing cannot occur properly. By promoting the production of new proteins, shockwave therapy can help to accelerate the healing process and reduce pain and discomfort in the foot.

Breaks Down Scar Tissue: Shockwave therapy can also help break down scar tissue that has formed in the plantar fascia. Scar tissue can limit flexibility and mobility and cause pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, scar tissue can be difficult to remove, but shockwave therapy can break it up, allowing the body to heal more effectively and reducing pain in the affected area.

Indications for Shockwave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include: heat, ice, massage gun, and cross training.

Shockwave therapy is typically recommended for those who have chronic plantar fasciitis. Or other words have tried conservative treatments such as:

It may also be recommended for patients who prefer non-invasive treatment options like surgery or injections.

Preparation for Shockwave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

First, make sure you clearly understand what shockwave therapy involves and what to expect during and after the procedure. Your healthcare provider should provide detailed instructions and answer any questions you may have. Even better, you are reading this article.

Your provider will likely instruct you to avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners in the days leading up to the procedure, as these can increase the risk of bleeding and other complications. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking and any medical conditions you have.

On the day of the procedure, wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the affected area. Consider bringing a pair of sandals or other comfortable shoes after the procedure.

Procedure for Shockwave Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

During the shockwave therapy, you will lie down while your therapist or doctor applies a special gel to your foot. This gel helps to transmit the shockwaves to the affected area. The therapist or doctor will then use a handheld device to deliver the shockwaves to the plantar fascia. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes and is generally well-tolerated by patients.

What Does Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis Feel Like?

Shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis will feel like impulses at the bottom of your foot. It may be uncomfortable during the treatment session.

When receiving shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis, you can expect to feel short pulses of energy delivered to the skin. While slight discomfort may occur during the treatment, this typically only lasts during the session. If the applicator is used on a bony foot area, you may experience slightly more discomfort.

Post-Procedure Care and Instructions

After your shockwave therapy session, you may experience discomfort or soreness in the treated area. This is normal and typically resolves within a few days. You may also be advised to rest and avoid high-impact activities such as running or jumping for a few days following your treatment. Your therapist or doctor may also recommend certain exercises or stretches to help improve the flexibility and strength of your foot.

Risks and Complications of Shockwave Treatment

Shockwave therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated by patients. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with the treatment. These may include:

  • Pain or discomfort during or after the procedure
  • Bruising or swelling at the treatment site
  • Infection or bleeding in rare cases

Contact your therapist or doctor immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms or complications following your shockwave therapy session.

When Not to use Shockwave Therapy

While shockwave therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are certain conditions in which it may be contraindicated. These include:

  • Pregnancy: Shockwave therapy should not be used during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
  • Nerve disorders: If you have a nerve disorder, such as neuropathy, you may be at increased risk of nerve damage from shockwave therapy.
  • Tumors: If you have a tumor at or near the treatment site, shockwave therapy may not be recommended as it could worsen the condition.
  • Pacemakers: If you have a pacemaker or other implanted medical device, shockwave therapy may interfere with its function.
  • Severe blood clotting disorders: People with severe blood clotting disorders may be at increased risk of bleeding or bruising from shockwave therapy.
  • Open wounds or infections: Shockwave therapy should not be used on areas of the body with open wounds or active infections, as this can increase the risk of complications.
  • Blood thinners: If you are taking blood thinning medication, such as warfarin or aspirin, you may be at increased risk of bleeding or bruising from shockwave therapy.
  • Acute injuries: Shockwave therapy is typically not used for acute injuries, such as a recent trauma, as it may interfere with the natural healing process.

It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before undergoing shockwave therapy to determine if it is safe and appropriate for your individual situation. They can help assess your medical history, current medications, and other relevant factors to determine if shockwave therapy is right for you.

To Make Sure You Fix The Root of Your Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is often caused by a combination of factors, including tight calf muscles, weak foot arches, and poor hip and leg alignment. By strengthening the hip and arch muscles and stretching tight arch and calf muscles, you can help correct these underlying issues and reduce the strain on your plantar fascia.

A rehab program designed to address the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis can fix your pain and keep it away for good. By taking a comprehensive approach to your rehab, you can help ensure a full and lasting recovery.

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy is a promising non-invasive treatment option for plantar fasciitis. It has been shown to promote the growth of new, healthy cells, make new proteins, and break down scar tissue. 

Shockwave therapy is typically recommended for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis or who prefer non-invasive treatment options like surgery or injections. 

The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and patients can expect to feel short pulses of energy delivered to the skin during the treatment. 

Some discomfort or soreness in the treated area is normal after the procedure, but this typically resolves within a few days. 

As with any medical procedure, risks and potential complications are associated with the treatment, including pain or discomfort during or after the procedure, bruising or swelling at the treatment site, and infection or bleeding in rare cases. Patients should immediately contact their therapist or doctor if they experience any unusual symptoms or complications following their shockwave therapy session.

About the author, Joe Armeli DPT

I'm Joe Armeli, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, a movement enthusiast, and a fellow runner. I'm here to help you achieve your physical health and performance goals, whether you're just starting to run or are a seasoned vet. For questions or concerns, email me at joe.armeli.dpt@gmail.com. Look forward to hearing from you!

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