Shockwave Therapy

Extracorpeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a treatment modality used to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain. Foundation Podiatry in Townsville employ the Swiss Dolorclast ESWT, the industry leader for Shockwave Therapy.

Shockwave therapy is recommended for chronic soft tissue injuries (> 6 weeks duration). Often when a soft tissue injury becomes chronic, the body no longer knows exactly how to fix the injury. Shockwave therapy creates an irritation at the site of the injury, bringing it from a chronic, stubborn injury into an acute injury so the body can once again fix it. Shockwave therapy is often combined with other treatments such as offloading, progressive strengthening etc.

Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendon Pain

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 recalcitrant injuries would normally involve extended periods of complete rest or immobilisation, cortisone injections and possible surgery. Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis, foot spurs and Achilles tendon pain is now recommended before considering these treatments.

Are you considering shockwave therapy for Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles tendon pain? Contact us today to make an appointment.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy 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 and collagen synthesis
• 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. Depending on your condition you can normally return to work after your treatment and may be able to continue to exercise whilst seeking treatment.

In most cases, 4 - 6 treatments placed 1-week apart will be required to successfully treat the majority of patients. A reduction in symptoms is often experienced after 2 treatments, however it is important to understand that the healing process continues for up to 3 months following the final treatment.

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Want to learn more about Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis, foot spurs and Achilles tendon pain?

Contact Us

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