Shockwave Therapy: A Game-Changer in Treating Tendonitis and Plantar Fasciitis

Shockwave therapy offers a revolutionary, non-invasive solution for treating tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. This treatment, available in both high-energy and low-energy forms, utilizes micro-traumas to stimulate the body’s natural healing process, effectively reducing pain and promoting recovery. Approved by the FDA for plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy provides an effective alternative to surgery, minimizing risks and enhancing patient outcomes. Ideal for those unresponsive to traditional treatments, ESWT represents a significant advancement in orthopedic care.

How It Works

Shockwave therapy is administered in two forms: high-energy and low-energy, both of which are effective for treating conditions such as tendonitis and plantar fasciitis.

• Low-energy shockwave therapy involves a series of three or more treatments. These sessions are generally painless or only mildly painful.
• High-energy shockwave therapy is completed in a single session. This method is quite painful and typically requires some form of anesthesia, either local or general.

The mechanism of action in shockwave therapy involves applying micro-traumas to the tissue affected by these conditions. These micro-traumas trigger the body’s natural repair responses, which stimulate blood vessel formation and increase the delivery of nutrients to the affected area, thus facilitating the healing process and alleviating pain.

Treatment Options

Since its first report in 1996, shockwave therapy has been recognized for its efficacy in treating tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. In 2000, the FDA approved the use of shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis. Subsequently, various technological advancements have been developed to treat these and other musculoskeletal conditions.

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): Employs pneumatic (compressed air) technology to induce micro-trauma.
• Focused Shock Wave Therapy (FSWT): Typically uses electromagnetic pulses to achieve the same effect.

Studies have shown these therapies to be effective in treating calcific tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. One of the most attractive features of shockwave therapy is its non-invasive nature, offering a treatment alternative that avoids the risks associated with surgery, such as ongoing pain, wound issues, and infection.

Current Recommendations

The efficacy of shockwave therapy in treating orthopedic conditions remains a topic of debate. However, it is recommended for patients who have not found relief through conservative treatment measures. Patients should undergo at least six months to a year of traditional treatments before considering shockwave therapy. For patients with plantar fasciitis, conservative measures like medication, icing, exercises, and orthotics are usually effective.

Shockwave therapy should be considered a beneficial option for those who have not responded to traditional treatments, especially before proceeding to surgical interventions. With minimal potential side effects, ESWT stands out as a reasonable and safe alternative for treating chronic plantar fasciitis in patients who have exhausted standard treatment options.