At My Family Podiatry, we're continually on the quest for new methods to ensure our patients can stride forward, pain-free. We're thrilled to offer Shockwave Therapy as a cutting-edge treatment offered at our Albany Creek clinic. This innovative approach has shown promise in providing relief for persistent issues like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy.
What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
ESWT is a non-surgical, non-invasive therapy, increasingly gaining recognition for its effectiveness in addressing tendon, ligament, bone, and soft tissue injuries. The technique involves transmitting pulsed shock waves through ultrasound gel to the area of injury. This, in turn, stimulates beneficial internal processes like blood vessel formation, improved bone and soft tissue remodelling, and release of pain-controlling enzymes.
Evidence from clinical studies indicates that shockwave therapy can not only reduce pain but also restore function in patients with conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinopathy, who have found other treatments ineffective. The success rates of shockwave therapy range between 65% and 91%, making it an ideal solution for those who have attempted various treatments, and may be considering options like steroid injections or even surgery.
What Conditions Does Shockwave Therapy Benefit?
Shockwave therapy can be a powerful tool in managing a variety of musculoskeletal conditions and soft tissue disorders. These include sports injuries, traumatic injuries, and the following common conditions:
Plantar fasciitis & heel spurs
Lower limb tendinopathies (such as hamstring, Achilles, peroneal, or patella tendinopathy)
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)
Ligament injuries
Post-traumatic knee stiffness & osteoarthritis
When Shockwave Therapy May Not Be Appropriate
Shockwave therapy is not suitable if you are pregnant and should not be used over joint implants or replacements.
Shockwave therapy can only be used for some specific conditions in children (this can be discussed with your podiatrist).
Shockwave therapy is also not suitable if you have:
A current infection at the injured site
Osteoporosis (brittle bones)
Peripheral neuropathy (absence of feeling in the limbs)
Poor circulation, blood clotting disorders, or taking anticoagulants.
Undergoing current cancer treatment/s
Cortisone injection performed less than 6 weeks ago
While shockwave therapy is effective as a stand-alone therapy to reduce pain and improve function, our Podiatrists find optimal results are achieved when used in conjunction with other treatments such as strapping, orthotics, exercise therapy and appropriate footwear. After a thorough initial assessment, your podiatrist will outline your rehabilitation process to ensure all aspects of your injury are managed.
If you have been struggling with foot or leg pain, shockwave therapy may be what you need to get back on your feet. Call My Family Podiatry on 3088 6116 or click the button below to book your appointment with the team.
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