London's Leading Orthopaedic Shockwave Clinic
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Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Over the past 30-years Shockwave Therapy has become the alternative to invasive surgical treatment for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis (heel pain) or those who do not respond to physical therapy or corticosteroid injections.
Unlike surgical plantar fasciitis treatment, which may have potential complications such as continued pain, wound problems, and infections, shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not require any incisions or injections making it a safer and more convenient option for patients who may not be good candidates for other types of treatments.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain from repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. It plays an important role in supporting the arch of the foot and acts as a shock absorber during walking and other weight-bearing activities. It works in conjunction with the muscles and tendons of the foot to maintain proper alignment and function during movement.
It is a common cause of foot pain, especially in runners, athletes, and people who are on their feet for extended periods of time. At Shockwave Clinics we have treated dozens of athletes with this problem including Olympic athletes.
Historically, physical therapy has been an effective plantar fasciitis treatment, for those not needing surgery or wishing to avoid it, as it aims to reduce pain, improve function, and prevent further injury by addressing the underlying causes of the condition. At Shockwave Clinics we have found that physical therapy in combination with shockwave therapy is a gamechanger for plantar fasciitis treatment, accelerating recovery or treating the condition when physical therapy has been found to be unable to solve the problem alone.
Our Shockwave Treatments
Achilles Tendonitis
Back Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Dupuytren’s Disease
Golfer’s Elbow
Gout
Hip Pain
Knee Calcification
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
Morton’s Neuroma
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Patellar Tendinitis – Jumpers Knee
Pseudarthrosis
Scar Tissue Treatment
Shoulder Calcification
Shoulder Tendinitis & Bursitis
Stress Fractures
Tennis Elbow – Lateral Epicondylitis
Therapy for Diabetics with Frozen Shoulder
Trigger Finger
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical treatment that utilises high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in various conditions.
The plantar fasciitis treatment involves using specific and focused shockwave frequency sound waves to the affected area stimulating blood flow and reducing the inflammation and help with re-modeling and building of the plantar fascia tissues. Shockwave aims to relieve pain, improve function, and promote tissue healing.
ESWT for administering treatment to the foot involves the use of a specialised device that delivers shockwaves to the affected area. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, usually in a seated or lying position, depending on the specific ESWT device being used. The foot to be treated is exposed and cleaned to ensure proper hygiene.
- Application of Gel: A coupling gel is applied to the treatment area. This gel helps to transmit the shockwaves from the device to the skin and tissues of the foot.
- Shockwave Delivery: The ESWT device, which consists of a handheld applicator, is placed on the gel-coated treatment area. The device is then activated, and shockwaves are generated and directed towards the foot.
- Shockwave Transmission: The shockwaves produced by the device travel through the gel and penetrate the tissues of the foot, specifically targeting the affected area, such as the plantar fascia in the case of plantar fasciitis. The shockwaves deliver controlled energy to the tissues, stimulating healing processes.
- Treatment Duration: The duration of an ESWT session may vary depending on the specific protocol and the severity of the condition being treated. Typically, a session lasts for a few minutes, during which multiple shockwaves are delivered to the foot.
What Research Supports Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?
Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. A 2017 meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials found that shockwave therapy was more effective than placebo in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. The authors of the study concluded that shockwave therapy should be considered as a first-line treatment for patients with plantar fasciitis. (1)
What Happens Before We Administer Shockwave Treatment
Prior to administering shockwave as a Plantar Fasciitis treatment, we will first conduct an assessment to gather information about your history of heel pain, either by asking you directly or reviewing the notes provided by your physician. We will also examine the affected area to better understand the clinical history of your condition. This evaluation is crucial to confirm that the issue being treated is, in fact, plantar fasciitis and heel pain, and to determine whether shockwave therapy is an appropriate and effective treatment option.
EMTT Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Our ground-breaking Plantar Fasciitis treatment combining focused Shockwave and Magneto Transduction Therapy has helped numerous individuals, both men and women, athletes, and non-athletes, to overcome the discomfort caused by Plantar Fasciitis.
Our approach has not only helped them become pain-free once again but has also prevented any potential flare-ups and renewed agony. Additionally, we have observed that this treatment combination has speeded up the recovery process for our clients.
As one of the very few clinics in the country providing these treatments, we strongly advise you to schedule an appointment with us if you need help.
Shockwave for Plantar Fasciitis FAQ’s
While shockwave therapy is generally considered to be a safe and effective treatment, it may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as blood disorders or cancer, may not be good candidates for the treatment. Additionally, shockwave therapy may not be effective for all patients, and some may require additional treatments, such as physical therapy or custom orthotics, to achieve full recovery.
Patients may experience a little discomfort during the treatment, but it is generally well-tolerated and does not require any anaesthesia or sedation.
Our usual protocol for addressing plantar fasciitis using shockwave therapy consists of three sessions per foot at a cost of £950. These sessions are typically scheduled once a week, spread out over a period of three weeks.
Shock wave treatment is particularly appealing because it is a non-invasive approach to addressing challenging problems. This is referred to medically as extracorporeal treatment, meaning it is performed outside of the body. Additionally, since it is non-invasive, there is no extended recovery period, no need for time off work, and a low risk of complications such as further damage and infections.
In contrast, surgery is often associated with significant drawbacks. For example, postoperative patients with plantar fasciitis frequently require a two- to six-week absence from work due to immobilization. Moreover, for private patients, the cost of surgery can easily run into several hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
Diagnosis is typically based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and assessment of symptoms. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound, may be ordered to rule out other potential causes or to assess the severity of the condition.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by overuse or Repetitive Strain. Activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, such as running, jumping, or prolonged standing, can put excessive strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, this can lead to microscopic tears, inflammation, and the development of plantar fasciitis.
- Foot Mechanics: Abnormal foot mechanics or structural abnormalities can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Flat feet (overpronation), high arches (underpronation), or an abnormal walking or running gait can cause imbalances in foot alignment, leading to increased stress on the plantar fascia.
- Age and Weight: Plantar fasciitis is more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. The natural aging process can lead to decreased flexibility and elasticity of the plantar fascia, making it more susceptible to injury. Being overweight or obese can also increase the risk due to the additional stress placed on the feet.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper arch support, cushioning, or stability can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Shoes that are worn out or do not fit properly can also exacerbate the condition.
Certain Activities and Occupations: Participating in activities that involve sudden increases in physical activity, such as starting a new exercise routine or suddenly increasing running mileage, can strain the plantar fascia and lead to injury. Occupations that require prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces, such as teachers, factory workers, or athletes, can also increase the risk.
What Other Treatment can Be Used in Association with Shockwave Therapy to Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
- Rest and ice: Resting the affected foot and applying ice to the painful area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain and promote healing.
- Stretching and exercise: Stretching the plantar fascia and other muscles in the foot and calf can help improve flexibility and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Common stretches include calf stretches, Achilles tendon stretches, and plantar fascia stretches.
- Footwear modifications: Wearing supportive and properly fitting shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability is essential in managing plantar fasciitis. Shoes with a low heel-to-toe drop and good shock absorption can help alleviate symptoms and reduce strain on the foot.
- Orthotic Devices: Shoe inserts or orthotic devices, such as arch supports or heel cups, can provide support, cushioning, and help distribute pressure evenly across the foot.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections: In some cases injecting corticosteroids directly into the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
To find out more about how we can help you please complete the form below or call us on Tel: 0207 222 8882
ABOUT SHOCKWAVE CLINICS
Shockwave Clinics Ltd is the leading shockwave clinic in London and the UK with the most advanced and comprehensive range of shockwave and complimentary technologies, including magneto transduction therapy and radio frequency.
For over 10-years we have been using Focused Shockwave to treat numerous muscular problems caused by sports injuries as well as back pain, problems caused by invasive surgery and simple old age.