Hints & Tips
Low Level Laser therapy explained
July 25 2020
Low Level Laser Therapy is the application of red and near infrared light over an injured site to promote tiss....
Extracorpeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a relatively new treatment modality used to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain. Foundation Podiatry employ the Swiss Dolorclast ESWT, the industry leader for Shockwave Therapy.
Shockwave therapy is recommended for resistant soft tissue injuries that do not respond to conservative treatment (ice, heat, stretching, strengthening, massage, supportive footwear, orthotics etc).
Persistent plantar fasciitis (heel pain) and chronic achilles tendon pain are the most well-researched and the most commonly treated conditions with shockwave therapy.
Until now, treatment for these resistant injuries would normally involve extended periods of complete rest or immobilisation, cortisone injections and possible surgery. Shockwave therapy is now recommended before considering these treatments.
ESWT delivers low and high energy shock (acoustic) waves to the injured tissue via a hand-held probe. These non-invasive shockwaves activate the body’s self healing process to reduce pain by:
- Increasing metabolic activity through improved blood circulation and formation of new blood vessels
- Nurtures and accelerates the healing process through cell regeneration
- Stimulates nerves to help decrease sensitivity in the area of pain
- Break up calcification within tendons which is reabsorbed by body
- Also has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect
Shockwave therapy is non-invasive, highly-effective, requires no anaesthesia and has no nasty side-effects. It is relatively pain-free and you can return to work straight after your treatment. Depending on your condition you may be able to continue to exercise whilst seeking treatment.
In most cases, 4 treatments placed 1-week apart will be required to successfully treat the majority of patients. A reduction in symptoms is often experienced after just 1 visit, however it is important to understand that the healing process continues for up to 6 weeks following the final treatment.