Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy for Persistent Foot and Lower-Limb Pain

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may be used to support the management of certain persistent musculoskeletal and soft-tissue conditions.

At The Dene Podiatry, shockwave therapy may be considered when pain has been ongoing for some time and has not responded as expected to other conservative treatments.

The aim is to support tissue healing, improve function and help reduce pain where clinically appropriate.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy uses controlled acoustic energy that is delivered to the affected area through a handheld treatment device.

These waves are directed into the tissues to stimulate a biological response that may help support the healing process.

The treatment does not involve surgery, injections or anaesthetic.

What Conditions May It Be Used For?

Depending on your assessment and individual circumstances, shockwave therapy may be considered for conditions such as:

• Persistent heel pain
• Plantar fascia-related pain
• Achilles tendon problems
• Other chronic tendon or soft-tissue conditions
• Ongoing pain that has not improved with initial conservative treatment

Shockwave therapy is not suitable for every type of foot or lower-limb pain, which is why a clinical assessment is important before treatment is recommended.

What Happens During Treatment?

Before treatment begins, your podiatrist will assess the painful area and confirm whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.

During the session:

• The area to be treated will be identified
• A treatment head will be positioned over the affected tissue
• Controlled shockwaves will be delivered to the area
• The intensity may be adjusted depending on your comfort and the condition being treated

Treatment sessions are usually relatively short.

Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt?

You may feel tapping, pressure or discomfort during treatment, particularly over a sensitive area.

The intensity can usually be adjusted to a level that is manageable for you.

Some tenderness may remain for a short period after treatment.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions required depends on the condition, how long you have had symptoms and how your body responds to treatment.

Shockwave therapy is often provided as a course of treatment rather than a single session.

Your podiatrist will discuss the recommended treatment plan with you following your assessment.

What Happens After Treatment?

Most patients can return to normal day-to-day activities following treatment, although you may be advised to temporarily modify certain activities depending on your symptoms.

Your podiatrist may also recommend additional measures such as:

• Stretching or strengthening exercises
• Footwear changes
• Activity modification
• Insoles or orthotics
• Other podiatry treatments

Shockwave therapy is often most effective when used as part of a broader treatment plan rather than in isolation.

Is Shockwave Therapy Suitable for Everyone?

No. Shockwave therapy is not appropriate for every patient or every condition.

Before recommending treatment, your podiatrist will consider factors such as:

• Your medical history
• Current medications
• The location and cause of your pain
• How long you have had symptoms
• Previous treatments
• Your overall health

If shockwave therapy is not appropriate, we will discuss other treatment or management options with you.

A Personalised Treatment Approach

Persistent foot and lower-limb pain can have a significant impact on walking, exercise, work and everyday activities.

At The Dene Podiatry, we aim to identify what may be contributing to your symptoms and recommend treatment based on your individual needs.

If shockwave therapy is clinically appropriate, we will explain how it works, what you can expect, and how it fits into your overall treatment plan.