What is Shockwave Therapy and How Podiatrists Use It to Heal You

In today's fast-paced world, foot and ankle problems can be a major hindrance to our daily lives.

Whether it's a sports injury, chronic pain, or a persistent condition, finding effective treatments is essential.

Shockwave therapy has emerged as a solution for various podiatric issues such as heel pain  Plantar Fasciitis, achilles tendinopathy and leg pain. As well as soft tissue accelerated healing, shockwave can help to heal stress fractures. 

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the ins and outs of shockwave therapy and how podiatrists utilise it to heal you.

When traditional treatments fall short, shockwave therapy steps in as a non-invasive and innovative approach. This article is your definitive guide to understanding the world of shockwave therapy.

We'll cover everything from its definition to how it's used by podiatrists to heal you. Let's embark on this journey towards healthier, pain-free feet.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is a cutting-edge medical procedure that employs shockwaves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions.

These shockwaves are high-energy sound waves that stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Shockwave therapy works by mechanotransduction, a pressure on the bodies' cells. This pressure sets in motion the healing cascade. 

Increased cellular turnover of osteoblasts, tenoblasts, platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), matrix metalloproteases (MMP's) and macrophages can be detected a year after a course of treatment with Shockwave therapy. Furthermore, substance- P a nerve sensitiser reduces over the course of your treatment leading to pain relief. 

This therapy has gained popularity due to its efficacy in relieving pain and improving overall mobility.

In shockwave therapy, a device delivers these shockwaves to the affected area, initiating a healing response. This process enhances blood circulation, accelerates tissue repair, and reduces inflammation.

Key Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

• Pain Relief: Shockwave therapy is highly effective in reducing pain associated with chronic conditions, such as plantar fasciitis.
• Quick Healing: The treatment accelerates the body's natural healing mechanisms, leading to faster recovery.
• Non-Invasive: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy is non-invasive, reducing the risks and downtime.
• No Medication: It eliminates the need for extensive medication, reducing potential side effects.

How Podiatrists Use Shockwave Therapy:

Podiatrists (specialists in foot and leg health) play a crucial role in administering shockwave therapy. They carefully assess a patient's condition and determine whether shockwave therapy is the right course of action. If recommended, the treatment is administered in the following steps:

Patient Evaluation:

• Assessment: Podiatrists evaluate the patient's medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments to understand the condition thoroughly.
• Diagnosis: A precise diagnosis is made, targeting the root cause of the issue, be it a sports injury, chronic pain, or a specific condition.

Shockwave Treatment:

• Shockwave Application: The podiatrist precisely applies shockwaves to the affected area, ensuring it covers the problem zone.
• Duration: A typical session lasts around 15-20 minutes, with patients often experiencing relief after just a few sessions.

Post-Treatment Care:

• Recovery Plan: Podiatrists craft a personalised recovery plan, which may include exercises and lifestyle adjustments to ensure the best results.
• Follow-Up: Patients are scheduled for follow-up appointments to track their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Questions Our Podiatrists Are Asked:

Q: Is shockwave therapy painful?
A: While some patients may experience mild discomfort, the procedure is generally well-tolerated, and any discomfort is usually short-lived.

Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Many patients experience improvements after just a few sessions, but the exact timeline can vary based on the condition being treated.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Side effects are rare and typically minor. They may include temporary redness, bruising, or mild swelling at the treatment site.

Q: Can shockwave therapy be used for all foot and ankle conditions?
A: Shockwave therapy is most effective for certain conditions, and podiatrists will determine its suitability during the evaluation.

Q: Is shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
A: Coverage can vary, so it's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific situation.

Q: Are there any contraindications for shockwave therapy?
A: Some medical conditions may contraindicate the use of shockwave therapy, and your podiatrist will consider this during the assessment.

Shockwave Therapy In South London:

In the realm of podiatry, shockwave therapy has emerged as a game-changing treatment.

Its non-invasive nature, minimal side effects, and fast and lasting results make it a preferred choice for many patients.

Whether you're dealing with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or another foot or leg condition, this innovative therapy can help you regain your mobility and lead a pain-free life.

If you're based in South London and considering shockwave therapy, contact the team at South London Foot Clinic to determine if it's the right solution for your specific condition. Don't let foot and ankle problems hold you back; explore the potential of shockwave therapy and experience the healing it can provide.