What is ESWT, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is known for its use by Urologists to treat kidney stones. In October of 2000, the FDA issued approval of ESWT for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy is beneficial for the treatment of chronic orthopedic and podiatric conditions.

An important benefit of ESWT is that is delivered from outside the body; so many of the risks associated with surgery are eliminated.

Your physician may schedule you for ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy). ESWT is non-invasive and performed as an outpatient. Patients are able to leave the treatment center and return home after the procedure is completed.

How does ESWT work?

Shockwaves work by causing micro trauma to the afflicted area. This in turn leads to increased blood flow to the area that triggers the body’s repair abilities to create tendon healing. The shockwaves over stimulate the nerves to reduce the sensitivity and pain.

Who should consider having ESWT?

ESWT treatment is for patients who have had chronic Plantar Fasciitis for at least six months and who have tried other treatment methods. Other methods for treatment may include physical therapy, the use of an orthotic device, or a course of pharmacological treatment.

What other treatments are available for treating chronic pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis?

Doctors know that many people improve with time, even with no treatment. Many other people get better after trying one or more conservative treatments that include:

• Rest from excessive or abusive activity and the application of heat or cold
• Physical conditioning exercises
• Use of device or braces
• Physical therapy
• Over the counter pain relievers
• Prescription pain relievers
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid injections

What will happen on the day of ESWT?

You will be asked to arrive at the treatment center at a designated time prior to your treatment. You must have someone accompany you to and from the center. You will be escorted to a pre-treatment area where you will be prepared for your therapy procedure. Prior to treatment, your physician may inject a local anesthetic. Also, you may be given drugs through an IV to help you relax.

You will be taken to the treatment room. The shockwave device will be placed against the afflicted area, a transmission gel will be applied to the shockwave therapy head and the area of pain or afflicted area will be placed in contract with the therapy head. Your physician will target the shockwaves throughout the treatment to obtain the best results. The treatment will take around 25 minutes.

When your treatment is complete, the person that accompanied you to the center may drive you home. According to your physician’s directions, after a short recuperative period you will be able to return to normal activities. Your condition should continue to improve over the next 3 to 6 months.

What are the benefits and risks involved?

Based on the worldwide medical experience, extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a safe and effective alternative to the traditional surgical treatment methods available.

There are very few side effects or risks involved in shockwave therapy. Other side effects might include minor skin bruising and/or reddening, as well as swelling for a brief period of time. You may have episodes of discomfort similar to what you had before the treatment. The discomfort may continue for a few days to several weeks after treatment. It may take up to six weeks for pain relief to begin.

If you have been experiencing heel pain for more than six months without relief with conservative treatment, ESWT may be indicated for your problem. Please contact any of the doctors at Cedar Valley Podiatry/Cervetti & Associates for an appointment today.”

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