ESWT is a fast and gentle non-surgical method of reducing heel pain.  It is derived from lithotripsy, a technique used today to disintegrate kidney stones without the use of invasive surgery.  The EMS Swiss Dolorclast device delivers pneumatically-generated high-pressure shock waves that travel through the skin.  Inflamed soft tissue and bone calcifications that receive these high-energy pulses will heal stronger without any harm to the surrounding tissue.   Electricity is not sent into the body.  High-energy pulsations of ultrasonic waves stimulate the body’s natural self-healing process.

Who does this treatment benefit?

ESWT is especially beneficial for patients that have chronic heel pain and have not had much success with the traditional therapies such as medications, orthotics, injections, or physical therapy.  If a patient suffers from plantar fasciitis, heel spur syndrome, or Achilles tendonitis, you should speak to your podiatrist about how ESWT can work for you.

Can anyone receive this treatment?

Your podiatrist can determine if you are a candidate for ESWT.  It is reserved for special cases where other conservative methods of treatment did not provide adequate relief of pain.  ESWT is a very safe treatment, however it is not recommended for use in heel pain for children, people currently taking medications that inhibit blood clotting, diagnosed blood clotting disorders, or pregnant women.

What’s involved in the treatment?

The procedure is performed in the comfort of the Achilles office.  After an evaluation of your medical history, your podiatrist will carry out a simple manual examination of the painful area.  The trigger point, or sore area over the heel, will be located and marked.  Ultrasonic transmission gel is applied to the foot.  The ESWT hand piece is then positioned to gently and extensively transmit shockwaves over the injured area.  The feedback the patient provides to the doctor helps determine the fine positioning of the applicator and the measurement of the impulse frequency.  Once the patient is comfortable at a low level, the energy is gradually increased over several minutes.

How long does the treatment take?

A typical treatment session lasts about 5-15 minutes.  The patient will require one session per week for three weeks.

How soon can I expect results?

Most patients will notice improvement after the first treatment, with up to 90% improvement after the third treatment.