Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the heel and the bottom of the toes. It is a gradually worsening pain that can make it difficult to walk or stand. Shockwave therapy is a procedure that uses sound waves to help relieve pain. It is a great alternative to over the counter medications and can fix plantar fasciitis once and for all. 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the tissues on the bottom of your foot. The inflammation can cause your foot to swell and feel very tender. Shockwave therapy is one treatment option that has been shown to be effective for treating Plantar Fasciitis. Shockwave therapy uses vibration and heat to help break down the inflammation and relieve the pain.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses high-frequency sound waves to help relieve pain and inflammation in the body. Shockwave therapy is most commonly used to treat plantar fasciitis, which is a chronic pain condition that affects the heel and the foot.

One of the main benefits of shockwave therapy is that it can be used in a variety of treatments sessions. This means that patients can work through their pain gradually over time, rather than experiencing short-term relief followed by long-term pain. Additionally, shockwave therapy is relatively gentle on the body, so it can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as cortisone injections or physical therapy.

 Does Shockwave Therapy Work for Plantar Fasciitis?

There is some evidence to suggest that shockwave therapy (SWT) may be helpful for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. SWT involves the use of a device that sends a shock through the feet, which is thought to help break down scar tissue and reduce inflammation.

There was a study conducted in 2020 that was published by Pub Med. Per the study it revealed that “Shock wave therapy was effective for plantar fasciitis treatment according to the proposed protocol considering pain, function and quality of life”.

What are the Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy has been shown to be effective for treating plantar fasciitis, with reported improvements in pain relief and function. The therapy uses a high-frequency sound wave to cause pain and inflammation in the affected area, which is thought to improve blood flow and mobility. Shockwave therapy may also reduce the need for surgery or other treatments, and is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified professional.

How is Shockwave Therapy Performed?

Shockwave therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy waves to restore function to muscles and joints. The waves travel through the body and stimulate the cells in the target area. This can help to relieve pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Shockwave therapy is most often used for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tennis elbow. It is typically delivered through an ultrasound machine that sends short bursts of energy to the targeted area.

How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost for Plantar Fasciitis?

Shockwave therapy is not typically covered by health insurance, and may require a separate payment from the patient. Prices for this type of treatment vary depending on the location and provider. Generally you can expect to pay around $400 per session in a doctors office. A cheaper alternative is to purchase a shockwave therapy machine for home use. These machines generally run anywhere from $300-$800 and can be purchased on Amazon.

When will you see results from Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis. The therapy is typically administered as a series of sessions over a period of weeks or months, and patients generally report good results within a few weeks. Some patients may experience mild discomfort during treatment, but most report significant relief after just a few sessions. As with any type of therapy, however, results may vary from person to person and depend on the severity of the condition.

Conclusion

Shockwave therapy is a procedure that uses sound waves to help relieve pain. It has been shown to be effective in treating plantar fasciitis.  It is usually safe when performed by a qualified professional and can also be administered at home with a shockwave therapy device designed for home use.