Different Kinds of Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fascia

If you've ever experienced pain in the heel and the bottom of the foot, you may have plantar fasciitis. This painful condition develops as a result of excessive use or injury to the plantar fascia, the tissue that joins the toes to the heel bone. Thankfully, there are several methods of treating plantar fasciitis, including high- and low-energy shockwave therapy.

Symptoms

• One of the most common signs of plantar fasciitis is pain that develops in the area of the heel and underside of the foot after prolonged periods of rest. This could mean just after awakening, or when sitting down or even standing for a long period. The pain is usually sharp and can affect one or both feet. The pain does not typically occur suddenly or without warning, and usually develops slowly. If conventional pain management does not help alleviate the condition, consult your doctor, who may recommend what is known as shockwave therapy.

Shockwave Therapy

• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an alternative form of treatment for plantar fasciitis that involves using soundwaves of varying energy levels to help stimulate and expedite the healing process. It is typically used only in chronic cases that fail to respond to conventional treatment.

  According to Podiatry Today, there are four different ways to utilize shockwaves. These include:

  Electrohydraulic, or spark gap, therapy, which involves using a sparkplug to create heat and generate a sonic pulse. It was one of the first forms of shockwave treatment developed.

  Electromagnetic therapy, which involves sending a current of electricity through a coil, which in turn creates a magnetic field and creates a shockwave from the ensuing compression.

  The piezoelectric principle, which involves a powerful level of electricity applied to piezo crystals (crystals that can generate an electrical field), which results in the breakdown of the crystals, causing a shockwave.

  Radial technology, which involves using a small device directly on the skin to disperse soundwaves throughout the affected area.

  In the end, your doctor will determine the best possible course of treatment for your case, as shockwave therapy is not always recommended. Side effects can include bruising, swelling and pain.