Once the cause of pain has been established and other mechanical options have been utilised, we turn to shock wave as a fast, non-invasive therapy. It is recommended for chronic soft tissue injuries, particularly those that have not responded to typical conservative treatments such as ice, heat, stretching, strengthening, massage, change of footwear, orthotics, and taping.
Shockwave therapy is now recommended well ahead of extended period of complete rest or immobilisation, cortisone injections or surgery.
What is Shockwave?
Shockwave is a high energy, acoustic sound wave. To be clear, it is a physical sound wave shock, not an electric shock. These rapid sound waves produce an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the pain site which accelerates the healing process. The shockwaves also break down scar tissue and calcification. It may also provide an analgesic effect on the painful area.
Shockwave is a non-invasive, non-surgical option to treat chronic heel pain, plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis.
It is applied to the painful areas for a few minutes depending upon patients pain tolerance. Your podiatrist is able to adjust the shockwave intensity throughout the session and will be guided by you.
Although the treatment may feel uncomfortable, most patients are able to tolerate it well. After the treatment session is finished, you may experience slight tingling, aching, or throbbing which will subside. It is a good idea to reduce activity for around 24 hours to assist the self-healing process. There is generally an immediate reduction in pain and range of motion following this therapy session. This treatment is repeated weekly up to six sessions.
The most common problems we treat with shock wave include:
- Heel pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bursitis
- Achilles’ tendonitis
- Arch pain
- Shin Splints
- Knee pain
Shockwave treatment takes around 10-15 minutes during a consultation. High energy, acoustic waves stimulate a biological and physical response in the body to aid in the healing process and to reduce pain. It has been shown to be effective in significantly reducing pain and promoting healing in at least 75% of cases worldwide. The therapy stimulates the body’s natural self-healing process. You should expect a reduction in pain and improved range of motion.
Shockwave Therapy has been shown to work best when it is combined with other rehabilitation strategies such as change of footwear, taping and orthotics. Your podiatrist will discuss whether this is a suitable treatment for your condition.
If you have any questions about Shockwave Therapy, please don’t hesitate to contact us for further information.
Local Melbourne suburbs we service
With a priority on keeping people healthy, Melbourne Foot Clinic provides a wide range of professional services for people across Melbourne’s East. Our patients travel from all over Victoria to see us at our foot clinic in Mont Albert, with most coming from the following locations:
Mont Albert Podiatrist
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Box Hill
We use cutting edge technology and offer excellent services to many residents of Box Hill.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Surrey Hills
Our podiatrists are experts in providing biomechanics, orthotics, and foot pain for patients from Surrey Hills.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Camberwell
Our podiatrists are specialists in treating clients’ problems across Camberwell and Melbourne’s East.
Mont Albert Podiatrist Near Balwyn
Reputable podiatrists servicing the residents of Balwyn with outstanding results for years.
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