SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

SHOCKWAVE THERAPY

What is Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy?

• ESWT is a fast and gently non-surgical method of reducing heel pain. It is derived from lithotripsy, a technique used today to disintegrate kidney stones without the use of invasive surgery. The EMS Swiss Doloclast device delivers pneumatically-generated high pressure shock waves that travel through the skin. Inflamed soft tissue and bone calcifications that receive these high energy pulses will heal stronger without harm to the surrounding tissues. Electricity is not sent into the body. High energy pulsations of ultrasonic waves stimulate the body’s natural self-healing process.

Who does this treatment benefit?

• ESWT is especially beneficial for patients that have chronic heel pain and have not had much success with traditional therapies such as medications, orthotics, injections or physiotherapy. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, heel spur syndrome or Achilles tendinitis, you are a candidate for this treatment.

Can anyone receive this treatment?

• Dr. Penn will determine if you are a candidate for ESWT. It is reserved for special cases where other treatments did not provide adequate relief of pain. ESWT is a very safe treatment, however is not recommended for use of heel pain in children, pregnant women or people currently taking medications that inhibit blood clotting.

Does this treatment involve surgery or medications?

• ESWT means that there is no surgery, no anesthesia, no injections and no medication.

What is involved in the treatment?

• The procedure is performed in our office. After an evaluation of your medical history, Dr. Penn will carry out a simple manual examination of the painful area. The trigger point, or sore area over the heel will be located and marked. Ultrasonic transmission gel is applied to the foot. The ESWT hand piece is then positioned to gently and extensively transmit shockwaves over the injured area. The feedback you provide helps to determine the fine positioning of the applicator and the measurement of the impulse frequency. Once you are comfortable at a low level, the energy is gradually increased over several minutes.

How long does the treatment take?

• A typical session lasts about 15 minutes. You will require one session per week for three weeks.

How soon can I expect results?

• Most patients will notice improvement after the first treatment, however, overall healing continues for 3 months after the last treatment. Success rates with this treatment is approximately 70- 80%.

Are there any side effects with ESWT?

• There are no complications with ESWT, since no medication, surgery, injections, or anesthesia is involved. Side effects may include tingling, warmth or numbness immediately after their treatment.

Schedule an consultation with Advanced Podiatry Services for a complete evaluation.