Shockwave Therapy
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is used to treat chronic (long-term) soft tissue conditions such as plantar fasciitis that has failed to respond to previous conventional treatments. The technology is based on lithotripsy, which has been used since the 1980’s for the treatment of kidney stones. Shockwave therapy technology was adopted for use in soft tissue conditions in the 1990’s and has gradually grown in popularity since. A shockwave is a high-energy sound wave that is targeted to the injury using a hand-held applicator. Shockwaves are repeatedly applied to the injury area, which breaks down scar tissue and calcifications and initiates a healing cascade.
![Shockwave Therapy 11 physical therapy of foot with acoustic shock waves 2023 11 27 04 57 18 utc](https://theheelpainexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/physical-therapy-of-foot-with-acoustic-shock-waves-2023-11-27-04-57-18-utc.webp)
Radial Shockwave Therapy vs Focused ShockwaveTherapy
There are two main types of shockwave therapy, which are radial shockwaves and focused shockwaves. The differences are around how the shockwaves are generated and interact with biological tissue. In terms of effectiveness, there currently isn’t enough research to prove that one is more effective than the other. Radial shockwave therapy is more readily available so most providers offer this option and typically it involves 3 weekly treatment sessions, whereas focused shockwave therapy is less frequently used and typically involves 1 treatment session. Focused shockwave therapy can penetrate deeper structures than radial shockwave therapy, however this is not an added benefit when treating plantar fasciitis as the depth of radial shockwave therapy is perfectly adequate.
Does it Work?
In short, yes, shockwave therapy does work for the majority of patients with plantar fasciitis however, it doesn’t work for everyone. We have been using shockwave therapy for over 7 years and find that the success rate is approximately 70%. This success rate appears to be similar to clinical studies investigating shockwave therapy for treating plantar fasciitis. If you would like to learn more about the research check out our blog article here
Risks
Generally, shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis is very safe. It is non-invasive and does not require a local anaesthetic. Rarely, there may be increased swelling, pain or bruising after treatment. Patients taking blood thinners medications are advised to stop their medication before receiving shockwave therapy due to the increased risk of bleeding. Contraindications include a surgical implant near the treatment area, patients with cancer and pregnancy.
Our Verdict
Shockwave therapy is a good treatment option for chronic cases (longer than 3 months) of plantar fasciitis. In our experience, the majority of patients wait until their heel pain has become chronic before seeking treatment. This often means that the degenerative changes within the plantar fascia are more advanced and are less likely to heal despite normal treatment. This is when shockwave therapy is a good treatment option, however, it should not be used as an isolated treatment as it does not address the underlying cause(s) of the condition. Shockwave therapy increases your body’s own ability to heal itself and should, therefore, be used as an adjunct treatment with other mechanical treatments such as stretching, orthotics, a night splint, and appropriate footwear.
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The Heel Pain Expert
Nicola Nicholls2024-02-18Benn sorted out my foot issue. Down to earth guy who really got to the root of the matter and with his help my foot is much improved. Thanks Benn 👍
Clare Murphy2024-01-12Benn is extremely knowledgeable , professional and so patient. He listens carefully and is an excellent communicator. I had heel pain for 3 years and he did a nerve ablation which went very smoothly, my pain continues to reduce 3 months post op and I would highly recommend Benn to anyone with heel pain. If I had any foot problems I would definitely return to Benn. Thank you!!
Lizzie Lockett-Turner2023-12-14I recently saw Benn as I had a very sore Mortons neuroma in my left foot that was causing pain, numbness, tingling and affecting my ability to drive, work & personal life. He was brilliant from the start & cleary explained everything. I had the radio frequency ablation done and have just had my 3 month follow up check done & all my issues have gone. During the ablation Benn talked me through what he was doing and was able to answer all my questions and worries. The whole process went very smoothly and I felt very well taken care of. The aftercare was great & Benn got back to my emails promptly if I had questions. I would thoroughly recommend Benn to anyone who has a neuroma and by the look of his reviews, any type of foot pain. He has made me very happy by fixing my foot & I won't hesitate to book another appointment if I have any further issues with my feet! Thank you Benn. 9 months later review: Still absolutely no pain or recurrence of any neuroma symptoms. This procedure is worth every penny!!
이서린2023-09-28Quick appointment when I needed advice. Benn was kind during treatment, and available for advice after treatment. Highly recommend
Paula Vass2023-08-18I have had intermittent heel/achilles pain as a runner for about 30 years. Ben diagnosed and successfully treated it, where many others have failed. I am now 100 % pain free and absolutely amazed by the results. Ben is also a highly organised and efficient professional.
Kate Cobb2023-03-10Benn is really efficient at diagnosing problems and treating them. I had achilles tendinopathy which Benn diagnosed with ultrasound and then he prescribed insoles and exercises to do which have cured it. As I was about to go on a walking holiday, it meant I could enjoy the holiday without pain!! Benn also sorted out a fungal condition that I had been unable to get rid off for about 30 years, despite seeing several other podiatrists and my GP. At times I couldn't even walk around the house and it has now gone thanks to Benn. If you have any feet issues, I would recommend that make an appointment with Benn
Gillian Nowland2023-02-26After suffering from Morton’s neuromas for some time I was given radio frequency nerve ablation for two neuromas in my left foot. Benn explained the procedure and gave me excellent care from start to finish. The procedure went to plan. I contacted Benn at certain points during my recovery and he always responded quickly and answered my questions. Now, four months on, my pain and discomfort has gone. My job requires me to be on my feet for long periods of time which I can manage pain free. I can recommend this treatment and I recommend Benn to carry it out.
Hannah mortley2022-10-04Definitely recommend the heel pain expert! I work a difficult shift pattern, but Benn was great fitting me in and being very flexible to get me seen as soon as possible. During the operation Benn was really great at communicating exactly what he was doing, and was very reassuring throughout. Really great professional service, thanks so much!
hickman janet2022-09-30Part 2 end September, followed up with a review with ultra sound scan explaining my condition; a biomechanical assessment with discussion of treatment options for the condition of plantar fasciitis. 5* again. We need more Benn Boschells ! Wouldn't think twice about travelling if I need a more invasive treatment, yes more expensive than the norm but worth every penny. Part 1 JuneTook up the offer of a free phone call to explore treatment options for fasciosis. Benn gives excellent unbiased info on treatments for the condition. No hard sell.Passionate and wholly patient focused.
Robbie Williams2022-09-07Benn is an absolute professional. I called to discuss the issue I had with my heels, I was called back quickly, arranged an appointment to go in and met Benn who diagnosed the issue, did exactly what he said he would do and fixed my issue. No more heel pain! Thank you Benn!