1. Use Shock Treatment With Other Remedies
Extracoroporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment for heel pain that results from chronic plantar fasciitis, but it's used only for acute cases. Most patients who are candidates for ESWT have tried at least three other treatment methods with limited or no success and have had continuous heel pain for longer than 6 months. It's important to use shock treatment in conjunction with other treatments, such as stretching exercises (performed by yourself or with a physical therapist), night splinting and daily use of orthotics, icing and rest. Performing simple rolling exercises with a can of frozen juice can soothe your feet while building strength.
2. Understand the Procedure Before You Start
Know what to expect from ESWT before you schedule appointments for treatment. An ultrasound machine is aligned with your foot and produces constant waves that allow the inflamed tissue to heal more quickly than traditional treatments. You may need multiple sessions over the course of 10 to 12 weeks to receive the full benefits. Not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. If you are pregnant, have a pacemaker or take blood-thinning medications, you shouldn't receive shockwave therapy and should discuss other options with your doctor.
3. Recognize Side Effects of Shock Treatment
You may experience side effects after receiving ESWT to treat your plantar fasciitis. The most common side effects are bruising and redness of the treated area. You may also experience minor swelling on the sole of your foot after the procedure. Less common side effects are numbness and tingling. All of these symptoms should disappear within a few days, but if they don't, contact your doctor for further evaluation. In rare cases, the plantar fascia can rupture after shock treatments.
