Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, so it’s hardly surprising that any new treatment will produce a buzz. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, or simply ESWT, is one that’s been causing a lot of excitement. Here’s what you need to know.
How does it work?
The treatment helps your inflamed foot to heal by breaking up the scar tissue with shock waves. Your body then produces more stem cells, which help naturally improve the rate of healing.
- The shock waves are focused on the skin in the area with the worst pain, which will be covered with a gel to help focus the energy.
- It will not be necessary to break your skin, so there’s no risk of infection. The procedure is also done in a podiatrist’s office, so expensive anesthesia and hospital costs don’t apply.
Who can benefit?
Recent research has shown that ESWT is most effective for people who have suffered from heel pain for more than 6 months, and for whom other treatments have not worked. Your podiatrist will be able to tell you whether you can be helped by this treatment.
- It’s most commonly given to patients who have had significant heel pain for six months or more.
- It will not generally be used unless three or more other therapies have been attempted without success.
- It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with hemophilia or people with some bone disorders.
How effective is ESWT?
Studies have reported positive success rates (around 85 percent) in treating plantar fasciitis. Many people have found their pain disappearing completely after six months, but pain relief starts as early as two to four weeks following the procedure.
What happens after treatment?
After your anesthetic wears off, and as your foot heals, there may be some discomfort for a few days. It will be important to follow your podiatrist’s recommendations on how to maximize your relief during recovery.
- You will be able to return to most of your activities after 24 hours.
- Avoid heat and ice treatments and stressful exercise for about one month. Instead, perform gentle stretching and stay in good supportive gym shoes.