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Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, making daily activities like walking and standing difficult. Many people try conservative treatments such as rest, stretching, and physical therapy, but some cases persist despite these efforts.
When conventional treatments fail, extracorporeal shock wave therapy has emerged as an effective treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis and recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.
This non-invasive treatment modality is gaining attention for its ability to promote healing, improve blood flow, and provide lasting pain relief without the need for surgical treatments or long-term medication use.
We offer shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis at our wellness clinic in Tempe, AZ.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation causes plantar heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
The condition is often caused by repetitive stress, overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. In severe cases, untreated plantar fasciitis can lead to stress fractures or chronic discomfort that limits mobility.
Conventional Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis
The first line of treatment for plantar fasciitis typically includes:
- Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the foot
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy to improve flexibility
- Orthotics and supportive footwear to relieve pressure on the plantar fascia
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
- Steroid injections for temporary pain relief in severe cases (*can be destructive over time)
While these treatment options can be effective, some patients experience chronic plantar fasciitis that does not improve with conventional treatments. In such cases, advanced therapies like shock wave treatment may provide the relief needed to restore function and comfort.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a non-invasive treatment modality that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissue. These sound waves create microtrauma in the affected area, triggering the body’s natural healing response.
This process promotes:
- Increased blood flow and formation of new blood vessels
- Breakdown of scar tissue that contributes to stiffness and pain
- Reduction in pain by desensitizing nerve endings
- Improved cellular repair for faster tissue regeneration
Unlike steroid injections, which provide only temporary relief, shock wave treatment addresses the root cause of the problem by improving tissue repair.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy
The treatment plan typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks. Each session lasts about 15 to 20 minutes, during which a device delivers controlled sound waves to the affected area.
Many individuals report noticeable pain relief after just a few sessions, with continued improvement over time.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
If you have tried conventional treatments like physical therapy, steroid injections, or orthotics with little success, shockwave therapy may be a viable option. This effective treatment offers a non-invasive alternative to surgical treatments, helping patients regain mobility and resume daily activities without chronic pain.
Explore Your Treatment Options With Pure Body Health
Plantar fasciitis can be frustrating and debilitating, but you do not have to live with persistent heel pain. If you are struggling with chronic plantar fasciitis, shock wave treatment may offer the relief you need.
To book an appointment at our wellness clinic in Tempe, call (480) 427-0442 or complete the online inquiry form. Visit us at 1553 W Todd Drive, Suite 106, Tempe, AZ.
Explore other conditions that shockwave therapy can treat:
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- Shockwave Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
- Shockwave Therapy for Vaginal Rejuvenation
FAQs About Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Addressing what caused it is the most important determinant to whether or not it will go away. We always look for the cause so that we can prevent its reoccurrence.
Shockwave therapy is generally safe, but some patients may experience mild side effects, including:
Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site
Mild discomfort during or after the procedure
Soreness for a few days as the body heals
These side effects typically resolve on their own, and most patients return to daily activities immediately after treatment.
Many patients experience some pain relief after the first session, but optimal results usually take a few weeks. The treatment works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response, so improvement continues gradually over time. Most treatment plans involve 3-5 sessions for long-lasting relief.
Shockwave therapy can provide long-term pain relief, but results depend on factors such as the severity of plantar fasciitis, activity level, and foot mechanics. To maintain results, patients should wear supportive footwear, follow stretching routines, and avoid excessive strain on the feet. For many individuals, shockwave therapy significantly reduces or eliminates pain, allowing them to regain mobility without surgery.