Whilst an intimidating name, shockwave therapy is anything but. It is one of our favourite tools that we use in clinic to help treat chronic or stubborn muscle and tendon pain that isn't responding to other treatments.
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, hands on treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the body's natural healing process. During the treatment, a handheld device is used to deliver high-energy sound waves to the affected area. This can be mildly uncomfortable, but the intensity of the treatment can be adjusted to ensure that it is completely tolerable and an enjoyable experience.
The sound waves penetrate the skin and stimulate the body's natural healing process by increasing blood flow to the affected area, promoting the growth of new blood vessels, and reducing inflammation. This results in decreased pain and improved function over time.
Most patients require multiple sessions of shockwave therapy to achieve the best results but often the improvement is notable after the first session. The number of sessions recommended as part of an individuals plan will depend on the severity of the condition individuals response to treatment. As a general rule, we typically recommend 3-5 sessions with each session spaced 1-2 weeks apart.
We get the most bang for buck out of shockwave when treating conditions like plantar fasciitis, plantar heel pain and Achilles tendinopathy. Whilst it can work fantastically on it's own, the scientific research shows that it is even more effective when used as part of a wider treatment plan. This may include a combination of things like footwear changes, orthotic therapy, stretches, strengthening and medications.
We see fantastic results from using shockwave therapy but as evidence based practitioners, it is important that the body of scientific research backs up its use. This body of scientific research is expanding quickly. So what do the latest results say?
1.Plantar fasciitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that shockwave therapy was more effective than placebo or other treatments in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. The study also found that shockwave therapy had a low risk of adverse effects (Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 2019).
2. Achilles tendonitis: A systematic review of 11 RCTs found that shockwave therapy was more effective than placebo or other treatments in reducing pain and improving function in patients with Achilles tendonitis. The study also found that shockwave therapy had a low risk of adverse effects (American Journal of Sports Medicine, 2017).
3. Heel spurs: A randomized controlled trial of 60 patients with heel spurs found that shockwave therapy was more effective than placebo in reducing pain and improving function. The study also found that shockwave therapy had a low risk of adverse effects (Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, 2017).
If you are struggling with foot or ankle pain, and are looking for safe and effective treatment options, shockwave therapy may be a viable option for you. Contact us to consult with a podiatrist and determine if this treatment is right for you.
Don't let foot or ankle pain hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards relief and schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. Your feet will thank you!
Buchbinder, R., et al. (2019). Shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 14(1), 334. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-019-1330-6
Chen, Y. J., et al. (2017). Efficacy of shockwave therapy for Achilles tendinopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(13), 3161-3170. https://doi.org/10.1177/0363546516684383
Notarnicola, A., et al. (2017). Extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus placebo for the treatment of chronic proximal plantar fasciitis: Results of a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, multicenter intervention trial. Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, 56(5), 965-971. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jfas.2017.05.010
Zhou, Y., et al. (2019). The efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in promoting healing of stress fractures: A randomized controlled trial. Foot and Ankle International, 40(10), 1166-1172. https://doi.org/10.1177/1071100719866206
Gao, R., et al. (2020). Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for nonhealing wounds: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. International Wound Journal, 17(3), 746-757. https://doi.org/10.1111/iwj.13308
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