Is Shockwave Therapy Effective for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment?

Is shockwave therapy effective for plantar fasciitis?

I have been experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis for over a year, with the most pain occurring in the morning when I wake up.
I have consulted many traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and Western doctors, but none have been effective.
Recently, I saw a report in the newspaper about "shockwave therapy," which claims to provide a cure in just one treatment.
However, I am currently working in Taichung and am unsure if there are any hospitals with shockwave therapy equipment, as well as the out-of-pocket cost for this treatment.
Is this method a permanent solution? I am under thirty years old, and I have heard of people suffering from this condition for many years.
My reduced physical activity has led to other health issues.
I would appreciate any information on better treatment options.
Thank you!

pei ying, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/29

Dr. Huang Longde reply Orthopedics

Hello, Miss Pei Ying! Plantar fasciitis commonly occurs in individuals whose occupations require prolonged standing or walking, as well as athletes who engage in excessive or improper training.
Additionally, some cases may arise from poorly designed "health trails" that are too sharp, leading to this condition.
Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a year, I believe it must have caused you considerable distress.
In response to your questions, here are the answers:
1.
It is known that Changhua Christian Hospital is the first hospital in central Taiwan to introduce musculoskeletal shockwave therapy.
Other large hospitals in Taichung have not been reported to offer this treatment yet, so I suggest you inquire by phone at a nearby facility.

2.
This treatment is out-of-pocket; for pricing, please contact the Foot and Ankle Center at Changhua Christian Hospital.

3.
Treatment methods: The simplest approach is to rest as much as possible and avoid walking, while soaking your feet in warm water for 1-2 times daily to aid in recovery.
You may also consider physical therapy options such as ultrasound or deep heat therapy, and local steroid injections can be utilized as well.
Most patients respond very positively to these treatments.

Reply Date: 2004/08/29

More Info

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), has gained popularity as a treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis. This non-invasive treatment involves delivering acoustic waves to the affected area, which can promote healing by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the regeneration of tissues.

Effectiveness of Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Research indicates that shockwave therapy can be effective in treating plantar fasciitis, particularly for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, orthotics, or corticosteroid injections. A systematic review and meta-analysis of multiple studies have shown that patients receiving shockwave therapy reported significant reductions in pain and improvements in function compared to those receiving placebo treatments. The therapy is typically administered in multiple sessions, and while some patients may experience relief after just one session, others may require several treatments to achieve optimal results.

Duration of Effectiveness
While shockwave therapy can provide significant relief, it is important to note that it may not be a one-time cure for everyone. The effectiveness can vary based on individual factors such as the severity of the condition, the duration of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Some patients may experience long-lasting relief, while others might need periodic treatments to maintain their results. Therefore, it is essential to have realistic expectations and to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Availability and Cost
As for the availability of shockwave therapy in Taichung, many orthopedic clinics and rehabilitation centers offer this treatment. It is advisable to contact local hospitals or specialized clinics to inquire about the availability of shockwave therapy equipment. The cost can vary widely depending on the facility and the number of sessions required, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 per session. Some insurance plans may cover part of the cost, so checking with your insurance provider is also recommended.

Alternative Treatments
If shockwave therapy does not seem like the right option for you, there are several other treatment modalities for plantar fasciitis that you might consider:
1. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

2. Orthotic Devices: Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can help support your arch and alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia.

3. Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.

4. Night Splints: Wearing a night splint can help stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon overnight, reducing morning pain.

5. Surgery: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered to release the tension in the plantar fascia.

Conclusion
In summary, shockwave therapy can be an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, especially for those who have not found relief through other methods. While it may not guarantee a permanent solution, many patients experience significant improvements in their symptoms. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment options for your specific situation, taking into account your age, activity level, and the duration of your symptoms. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and incorporating appropriate exercises can help prevent the recurrence of plantar fasciitis and improve your overall foot health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis: Pain Concerns

Dear Doctor, I started experiencing plantar fasciitis in both feet last October. I have undergone various treatments without success. In January of this year, I received three shockwave therapy sessions for my more painful right foot, with the last session on January 21. After th...

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics
Dear Readers, Musculoskeletal shockwave therapy primarily utilizes high-energy shockwaves to carry energy and transmit it to the body's tissues, concentrating on areas that require treatment such as bones, muscles, and fascia. This process helps restore blood supply to hypo...

Understanding Shockwave Therapy Effects on Foot Pain and Heel Changes

Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing pain in the soles of my feet and received shockwave therapy (four times on my right foot and once on my left foot). After the treatment, the pain was so severe that I could not walk. It has been about three weeks since the treatment, and I ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Shock wave therapy for the treatment of plantar fasciitis is a viable method. Literature recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not report the phenomenon you described. It is recommended that you rest more or consider using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (...

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Treatment Options and Long-Term Relief

Hello Doctor: On April 5, 2017, I visited Shin Kong Hospital and was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. The doctor mentioned that there is a definitive treatment, which involves shockwave therapy and custom orthotics, but both are quite expensive out-of-pocket. I asked the doctor ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Typically, medication treatment and reducing load on the plantar surface will lead to improvement. If there is no improvement, then the aforementioned interventions may be necessary. There is no distinction between symptomatic treatment and addressing the root cause. If the plant...

Understanding Sesamoiditis and Tendonitis: Treatment Options and Insights

Hello, doctor. I know I have a slight issue with stability in my feet, as sometimes the inner side cannot grip the ground. After one deep squat session, I felt discomfort near the protruding bone under my left big toe. When I massage the surrounding muscles, it feels a bit sore b...

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation
Treatment for plantar inflammation typically includes oral medications, local injections, and rehabilitation therapy. Adequate rest and the selection of appropriate insoles and supportive devices are also important. At home, heat therapy, soaking in warm water, and strengthening ...