Shockwave therapy, also known as Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a fast and gentle non-surgical method derived from lithotripsy, a technique used to disintegrate kidney stones without the use of invasive surgery. The Enplus shockwave device delivers pneumatically generated high-pressure shockwaves that travel through the skin. Inflamed soft tissue and bone calcifications that receive these high-energy pulses will heal stronger without harm to the surrounding tissues. Electricity is not sent into the body. High energy pulsations of ultrasound waves stimulate the body's natural self-healing process.
RSWT is especially beneficial for patients that have chronic heel pain and have not had much success with traditional therapies such as stretching, orthotics, physical therapy, and steroid injections. If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or Achilles tendonitis, you are a candidate for this treatment.
RSWT means there is no surgery, no anesthesia, no injections, and no medication. A typical session lasts 5 to 10 minutes, once a week for 4-5 weeks. Generally, Kinesio tape is applied after the treatment. Most patients experience improvement after the first treatment, however, overall healing continues for 3 to months after the last treatment. Success rates with this treatment are approximately 70 to 80%. There are virtually no side effects with the treatment since no medications, surgery, injections, or anesthesia are involved. Some patients may experience a short period of slight tingling, warmth, or numbness immediately after the treatment.
If you or someone you know has pain in their feet or ankles Dr. Michele Kurlanski is here to help. We can evaluate your feet and make recommendations on proper stretching, what shoes to wear. Call us today at (207) 774-0028 to schedule your next appointment at our location in Scarborough, Maine!
