Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extra Corporeal ShockWave Therapy (ECSWT), is new treatment options for those suffering from a range of soft tissue injuries including Plantarfasciitis and Achilles Tendonopathy (Tendonitis).

Shockwave was originally developed to treat kidney and gall sto
nes. The machine produces a high-intensity sound wave which interacts with the tissues of the body. It is particularly useful in treating soft tissue injuries where major connective tissues attach to the bone.

Put simply, Shockwave Therapy stimulates the healing process in the body to begin. The repetitive pulses break up tissue that has become dense and tight due to chronic inflammation, it stimulates blood flow to t
he area so our natural healing and anti-inflammatory processes can occur, and for the first time, we can actually break up calcified tissue (heel spurs) without surgical intervention.

The treatment plan will generally take place over 4-6 visits, this will vary depending on the patient’s reaction to the treatment as well as how long the problem or symptom has been occurring. IN the case of heel pain, for instance, shockwave therapy will be completed in conjunction with other treatments including massage and stretching, improved footwear habits and possibly orthotics if a biomechanical abnormality is contributing to the problem.

Not everyone is able to use ECSWT, so talk to the Podiatrist about whether it’s the right treatment for you!