Finding Relief: Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Hey there, foot warriors! If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been waging a losing battle against the relentless pain of plantar fasciitis. Fear not, because we’re about to explore a game-changer in the realm of foot pain relief – shockwave therapy. Get ready to discover how this innovative treatment might be the key to putting a spring back in your step!

Understanding Stubborn Plantar Fasciitis

First things first, let’s talk about the source of your woe: plantar fasciitis. It’s an incredibly common condition where the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) connecting your heel to your toes becomes inflamed, causing that sharp stabbing pain in your feet, especially in the morning. Plantar fasciitis can affect anyone at any activity & fitness level, but tends to appear when you add more stress than your feet can handle.

Unlike some injuries, plantar fasciitis tends to recur or worsen over time. This is because the usually effective “rest it and leave it alone” advice for injuries doesn’t work – who has time to stay off of their feet entirely for a few weeks? If you’re really unlucky, you might end up with this complaint recurring frequently or becoming chronic – never healing fully enough for the pain to go away.

Enter Shockwave Therapy

Now, let’s talk about the hero of our story – shockwave therapy. This non-invasive and revolutionary treatment has been making waves in the healthcare world, especially for those battling plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy involves sending sound pressure waves into the affected area. The “shocks” – they’re really better described as pressure waves here – powerfully stimulate your tissues, which create the following benefits:

• Speedy Recovery: Shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process by promoting blood circulation and tissue regeneration.
• Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients experience lasting relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms after a series of shockwave therapy sessions.
• Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy is a non-invasive option, reducing the risks and downtime associated with more traditional treatments.

How Legit is This?

Good question, that’s a valid concern. Shockwave therapy is relatively new to the scene – compared with other hands-on healthcare therapies it’s only a few decades old. The answer to your question is “It’s very legit”. I could write several posts expanding on the merits of shockwave therapy for various conditions – it can affect the body in unique ways that nothing else in a clinician’s toolbelt can.

You don’t have to believe me, there’s really renowned experts backing this up. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) ¹, Oxford University Hospitals², and The American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons³ shockwave therapy has proven to be an effective option for managing chronic plantar fasciitis.

The ACFAS highlights the positive outcomes of shockwave therapy, particularly for patients who haven’t responded well to conservative treatments.

Is Shockwave Therapy For Me?

or, “Why shockwave and not custom orthotics?”

The clinical question really is “do I need shockwave in addition to custom orthotics?” Shockwave really shows its value in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis which hasn’t responded well to previous treatment. I personally like to think of shockwave as “bringing out the big guns”. At Healthy Body, our physiotherapists and chiropractors don’t use shockwave therapy for everyone with plantar fasciitis – but we do keep it as an option, recommending it based on your individual circumstances.

What To Expect

Getting started with a course of shockwave therapy treatment for plantar fasciitis is easy. First, you’ll consult with a healthcare professional—I’d recommend one of the Chiropractors here at Healthy Body— who will conduct a thorough examination of your feet, ankles, gait patterns, and more. Your Chiropractor will then discuss what they found with you and treatment recommendations. If shockwave therapy is right for you, treatment can begin right away.

So, what can you expect during a shockwave therapy session? Well, it’s a breeze! The procedure is usually performed in a healthcare clinic, and it’s as simple as the flip of a switch. You might feel some mild discomfort during the session. Your chiropractor or physiotherapist will be checking in with you throughout the session so that we don’t exceed your discomfort tolerance. The entire process typically takes around 15-20 minutes, and you can get back to your daily activities right afterward.

With treatment-resistant chronic plantar fasciitis, expect to receive 4-6 shockwave treatments.

Will My Insurance Cover Shockwave Therapy?

In short, yes. Workplace insurance benefits covers shockwave therapy the same as chiropractic or physiotherapy treatment. Now, there is a price premium associated with shockwave treatments – I wasn’t kidding when I said the machine costs more than most cars – and the cost of treatment sometimes exceeds what insurance will cover for each session.

Our excellent staff at Healthy Body can help you navigate your benefits to verify your benefits coverage.

Beyond Pain Relief: Comprehensive Foot Care

Shockwave therapy is an incredibly powerful treatment which can really make the difference if you’re suffering from chronic, treatment resistant plantar fasciitis.

However, while shockwave can be hugely beneficial, it’s just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan for plantar fasciitis. Other strategies such as hands-on treatment, custom orthotic insoles, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and rest are also crucial components in resolving your pain and preventing future flare-ups.

Remember, everyone’s feet are different, and what works for one person might not work for another. Always seek advice from your healthcare team to determine the most suitable treatment options for your specific condition.

Start recovering today!

In conclusion, if you’re grappling with the discomfort of stubborn, chronic plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy could be the key to getting you back on your feet pain-free. This therapy offers a promising solution in the journey towards greater foot comfort and mobility. To take the first step towards relief, schedule an assessment now, either online or by phone at 905-389-9522.

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