Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), or Shockwave Therapy (SWT), is a revoluntary treatment for heel pain. It is a non-invasive, surgical procedure that sound waves to treat chronic heel pain uses.
The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. If you’ve been experiencing persistent, nagging pain in the heel and / or along the sole of the foot, you might have plantar fasciitis.
What is the plantar fascia?
The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue running from the heel to the base of the toes. It supports the arch of the foot, acts as a shock absorber and helps with forward propulsion during walking.
What is plantar fasciitis, what are the symptoms?
Plantar fasciitis is the name we give to pain in the heel, which may extend along the sole of the foot, that is caused by repetitive stress to the plantar fascia. It is usually felt most keenly on taking the first few steps following rest. This could be first thing in the morning, or after prolonged sitting.
Is it common, and will it ever heal?
Unfortunately this condition affects 1 in 10 of us at some point in our lives, and can be a pretty stubborn problem. Eventually it can get better but usually only after an extended period of time. However, treatment can certainly speed up the recovery process.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
There are several potential causes of plantar fasciitis – being overweight, pregnancy, being ‘on your feet’ all day and poor footwear may all contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Stiffness in the ankle and foot may also cause excessive strain on the plantar fascia, as may any changes in your usual work or exercise routine.
What is the physiotherapy treatment on offer for plantar fasciitis??
When treating plantar fasciitis, it is often a combination of strategies that works best. While medication and rest can ease your symptoms, physiotherapy to stretch and mobilise the tight tissue and stiff joints can resolve the problem.
A physiotherapist can also advise you on the most appropriate exercises and self-management techniques to help manage your problem. Orthotics may also be necessary to support the foot and reduce the strain of the plantar fascia.
Plantar fasciitis had always been a condition that was difficult to secure a complete recovery from until the introduction of SWT. It has been found to be a more effective method of treating plantar fasciitis than receiving a cortisone injection with remarkable results.
What is shock wave therapy?
Shock wave therapy is a non-invasive method that uses pressure waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. High-energy acoustic waves (shock waves) deliver a mechanical force to the body’s tissues.
In a recent study by the NHS UK of 149 patients, 69% of patients who had the procedure reported an ‘excellent’ result (no heel pain), whereas all patients who had conventional treatment reported some pain, after an average of 64 months.
If you feel you could be affected by any of the symptoms above then you can contact East Cork Physiotherapy, Balance & Acupuncture Clinic and speak to one of our Chartered Physiotherapists for further information on 021-4633455 or email info@eastcorkphysio.ie
Shock wave therapy is a noninvasive method that uses pressure waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. High-energy acoustic waves (shock waves) deliver a mechanical force to the body’s tissues.
In a recent study by the NHS UK of 149 patients, 69% of patients who had the procedure reported an ‘excellent’ result (no heel pain), whereas all patients who had
conventional treatment reported some pain, after an average of 64 months.
If you feel you could be affected by any of the symptoms above then you can contact East Cork Physiotherapy, Balance & Acupuncture Clinic and speak to one of our Chartered Physiotherapists for further information on 021-4633455 or email info@eastcorkphysio.ie
