Shockwave Therapy for : A Non-Surgical Breakthrough
Key Takeaways:- Shockwave therapy (ESWT) offers 70-80% success rates for chronic
- Treatment is non-invasive with no incisions, anesthesia, or significant downtime
- Most patients need 3-5 treatments spaced one week apart
- Results continue improving for 3-6 months after treatment completion
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
If you've been battling for months—tried stretching, orthotics, ice, and rest—but still hurt with every step, shockwave therapy might be your answer.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissue. Originally developed to break up kidney stones, this technology has been adapted for musculoskeletal conditions with remarkable success.
At Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute, we've seen shockwave therapy transform the lives of patients who had nearly given up on finding relief from chronic .
How Shockwave Therapy Works
The science is fascinating: controlled acoustic pulses penetrate the skin and reach the injured tissue, where they trigger a cascade of healing responses.
The Biological Response
Increased Blood Flow: Shockwaves stimulate the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), bringing oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area. Collagen Production: The treatment activates fibroblasts—cells responsible for producing collagen, the building block of connective tissue. Pain Reduction: Shockwaves appear to "reset" pain nerve receptors, breaking the chronic pain cycle. Calcium Deposit Breakdown: For patients with , shockwaves can help break down calcified deposits. Stem Cell Activation: Research suggests shockwaves may activate local stem cells, enhancing tissue regeneration.Two Types of Shockwave Therapy
Radial Shockwave (RSWT): Lower intensity, broader treatment area. Most commonly used for . Treatment at CFFAI typically uses this approach. Focused Shockwave (FSWT): Higher intensity, precisely targeted. Used for deeper conditions or when radial therapy hasn't fully resolved the issue.Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
Shockwave therapy works best for patients with:
- Chronic that hasn't responded to 3-6 months of conservative treatment
- Achilles tendinopathy resistant to standard therapy
- causing persistent pain
- Chronic tendinitis of the foot or ankle
- A desire to avoid surgery or inability to undergo surgery
Who Should Avoid Shockwave Therapy
ESWT isn't appropriate for everyone:
- Pregnant women
- Patients on blood thinners (relative contraindication)
- Active infections in the treatment area
- Tumors in the treatment area
- Severe peripheral neuropathy
- Severe circulatory disorders
- Children (growth plates could be affected)
During your consultation, we'll review your complete medical history to ensure shockwave therapy is safe and appropriate for you.
What to Expect: The Treatment Experience
Before Your Treatment
No special preparation is required. You can eat normally, take your regular medications (unless otherwise instructed), and drive yourself to the appointment.
Wear or bring shorts or loose pants that allow access to your heel.
During Treatment
Duration: Each session takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Positioning: You'll lie on a treatment table with your foot accessible. Gel Application: We apply coupling gel (like ultrasound gel) to ensure optimal energy transmission. The Shockwaves: The device delivers pulses to the affected area. You'll feel a rapid tapping sensation and hear clicking sounds. Sensation: Most patients describe mild to moderate discomfort—like a rubber band snapping against the heel repeatedly. Intensity is adjusted to your tolerance. No Anesthesia: The treatment doesn't require numbing injections. We want you to feel the treatment so we can adjust intensity appropriately.After Treatment
You'll walk out of the office immediately. Most patients experience:
- Temporary redness in the treatment area
- Mild soreness for 24-48 hours
- Possible slight swelling
- Occasional tingling
- Resume normal daily activities immediately
- Avoid high-impact exercise for 48-72 hours after each session
- Continue wearing supportive footwear and orthotics
- Follow any stretching protocols we prescribe
The Treatment Protocol
Typical Treatment Schedule
Most patients benefit from a series of treatments:
- 3-5 sessions total
- One week apart between sessions
- Approximately 2,000-3,000 pulses per session
Some patients experience improvement after the first session; others notice gradual improvement over the treatment course.
Timeline for Results
Unlike a cortisone injection that provides immediate (but temporary) relief, shockwave therapy stimulates a healing process that unfolds over time:
Week 1-2: Minimal change; the healing cascade is beginning Week 4-6: Many patients notice meaningful improvement Month 2-3: Significant reduction in pain for most responders Month 3-6: Continued improvement; results typically peakEffectiveness: What the Research Shows
Shockwave therapy isn't alternative medicine—it's evidence-based treatment supported by substantial clinical research.
Success Rates
- 70-80% of chronic patients experience significant improvement
- Studies show sustained benefits at 1-year and 2-year follow-up
- Similar effectiveness to surgery for many patients, without surgical risks
Comparison to Other Treatments
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Invasiveness | Downtime | |-----------|---------------|--------------|----------| | Shockwave Therapy | 70-80% | Non-invasive | Minimal | | Cortisone Injections | 60-70% (temporary) | Minimally invasive | None | | Surgery | 80-90% | Invasive | 6-12 weeks |
Who Responds Best?
Factors associated with better outcomes:
- Symptoms present 6-12 months (not too acute, not years chronic)
- No previous foot surgery
- Compliance with supporting treatments (stretching, orthotics)
- Overall good health
Combining Treatments for Optimal Results
Shockwave therapy works best as part of a comprehensive approach. We typically combine it with:
- Custom orthotics: Address underlying biomechanical issues
- Stretching protocols: Maintain flexibility and prevent recurrence
- Activity modification: Allow healing while staying active
- Night splints: Maintain plantar fascia length overnight
- Footwear guidance: Ensure adequate support throughout the day
Cost and Insurance Considerations
Shockwave therapy coverage varies by insurance plan:
- Some plans cover ESWT for
- Others consider it investigational
- Medicare coverage is limited
We'll verify your insurance benefits before treatment. For patients without coverage, we offer payment options to make this effective treatment accessible.
Taking the Next Step
If chronic has resisted months of conventional treatment, shockwave therapy offers a powerful non-surgical option worth considering.
The treatment is:
- Safe: Minimal side effects
- Effective: 70-80% success rate
- Convenient: Quick sessions, no downtime
- Non-invasive: No incisions, no anesthesia
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About Central Florida Foot & Ankle Institute
At CFFAI, Dr. Carli Hoover and Dr. Sean Griffin offer advanced shockwave therapy at our Orlando and Lake Mary locations. With expertise in both cutting-edge technology and traditional approaches, we'll find the right solution for your .
Ready to explore shockwave therapy? Book your consultation today →