Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is an innovative technique used to treat a number of chronic conditions that have not responded well to other conservative treatments.

“Extracorporeal” means outside of the body and allows us to provide this noninvasive treatment in our rooms for patients who are struggling with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and trochanteric bursitis. During this procedure sonic waves are directed at the area of pain using a device similar to that currently used in nonsurgical treatment of kidney stones.

The brief procedure lasts between 5-10 minutes and requires no anaesthesia. Strong sound waves are directed towards the affected area and are proven to stimulate healing. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during and after the procedure and it is advised that anti-inflammatories are not used during the course of the treatment.

The therapy is safe and is an effective alternative treatment option for heel pain and other pathologies.  Patients are generally able to return to everyday activities but are advised to avoid strenuous activity for the first couple of days. Clinical studies show a 70-80 percent success rate from treatments using Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy.