Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Or ESWT

Castle Rock Foot & Ankle Care

Podiatrists located in Castle Rock, CO & Highlands Ranch, CO

What is shockwave treatment?

This is a conservative, in-office treatment using sounds waves or sonic waves to create energy in soft tissue to promote healing of chronic soft tissue pathologies.

How does it work?

The sound waves reduce calcification, increase growth factors, and increase blood vessel ingrowth to help heal degenerative tissue.

How many treatments are needed?

Depending on the medical problem being treated, patients typically need 3 treatments, spaced out one week apart, but may need up to five treatments.

Can I do normal activity during treatment?

Yes, you can do all normal activities and there are no restrictions.

What do I need to avoid during treatment?

It is recommended to avoid all NSAIDs (non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) during treatment and for one week following the last treatment.

What is the success rate?

Success rate varies on body part, but for foot and ankle problems the average success rate is 85%.

Is shockwave treatment painful?

There are different unit models of shockwave. The unit we use in our office causes minimal pain, as there is a wide range of sonic waves that can be effective. This can be adjusted to each patient to make sure the treatment is not painful. Rarely does a patient need to be anesthetized in the area being treated.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment (ESWT or Shockwave) Q&A

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) has been recommended as an appropriate and effective method in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. After 3-6 months, plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis become chronic and canalso be known as plantar fasciosis or plantar fasciopathy and Achilles tendonopathy.

ESWT is capable of producing sonic waves with a high amplitude which creates energy to reduce calcification, increase the proliferation of growth factors, and increase blood circulation which helps heal degenerative tissue in the heel.

We perform ESWT in our office. The treatment does not require anesthetic and lasts about 8 ½ minutes. Three treatments, one week apart, are required for success. Patients can go right back to work, exercise and regular activities immediately following treatment.

Cost is $800 total, 2nd additional area is $200.

Patient Testimonials:

There is hope! I was a 5+ year sufferer of plantar fasciitis in both feet after being misdiagnosed with neuropathy by a different podiatrist. My new primary care physician questioned that diagnosis and recommended Dr. Jessica Herzog. After trying more traditional methods of pain relief, Dr. Herzog recommended ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy). As a researcher both by education (Ph.D.) and by trade (analyst), I was skeptical. A few years ago, the reviews fell short of 100%, 90%, or even 75% effectiveness. What were the chances that I would fall into the group where it worked? But, having a little extra funds in my flexible spending account last year, I decided to take the plunge. I don’t have an ounce of regret! My first test was house painting. I painted the entire weekend and every part of me hurt...except my feet! I know I am at the earlier stages of my journey, but after suffering for so long I am now optimistic that I’ll be able to do the things I love to do. If you have suffered for a long time with plantar fasciitis, I highly encourage you to give ESWT a try.

Dr. Laura Kesner