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Have you ever wondered about the history of extracorporeal shockwave therapy and how it has transformed foot treatment options? Shockwave therapy, initially introduced in the 1980s to break up kidney stones, later revealed its potential for treating a range of conditions. By the 1990s, it was being used to heal inflammation of ligaments, tendons, and soft tissue. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and podiatrists started harnessing shockwave therapy's power for foot ailments, particularly for stubborn conditions like plantar fasciitis. Today, it stands as a standard treatment that can provide significant relief from persistent foot pain.
The specific type of shockwave utilized in my office is called EPAT (extracorporeal pulse activation technology). EPAT employs focused impulses to activate your body's innate healing response. These targeted shockwaves are projected into the damaged tissue, stimulating the healing process. They increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing, while also promoting collagen production, vital for tissue repair. Moreover, they aid in dissolving calcium deposits responsible for pain. Though not an instant fix, a few sessions often yield remarkable improvements in pain and mobility.
Shockwave therapy is a versatile treatment capable of addressing several challenging foot conditions, including the likes of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy. If you're wrestling with persistent heel pain, this therapy could be the solution you've been searching for. Plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation in the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes, is particularly responsive to shockwave therapy. Similarly, Achilles tendinopathy, a condition affecting the Achilles tendon, can be effectively treated. For those experiencing chronic plantar fasciitis, EPAT can target the degenerative changes in the fascia, a result of ongoing strain that leads to inflammation and tissue thickening.
EPAT leverages shockwaves to induce microtrauma in affected tissues, provoking increased blood flow and metabolism, thereby expediting the healing process, mitigating inflammation, and ultimately alleviating pain. Numerous studies have substantiated its effectiveness. In one study, 82% of patients achieved complete symptom resolution after EPAT treatment, while another revealed a significant reduction in pain scores after just three sessions. EPAT isn't merely a temporary solution; it provides enduring relief. Moreover, it's non-invasive, safe, and entails no downtime. Following your session, you can step out of the clinic and continue with your day as usual.
Shockwave therapy may sound painful, but the truth is quite the opposite. While undergoing the treatment, you'll experience a sensation akin to a firm tapping, typically rating no more than a 4 or 5 on a pain scale of 10. Throughout the process, I'll maintain an open line of communication to ensure you're comfortable and that the treatment stays within the therapeutic range.
Wondering if shockwave therapy is the right choice for you? It's not a one-size-fits-all solution and depends on factors such as the duration of your symptoms and any prior treatments you've undergone. For acute foot pain lasting only a few days, your body's natural healing mechanisms may suffice with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. However, if you've grappled with persistent symptoms for several weeks or more, especially in chronic conditions unresponsive to conservative therapy, shockwave therapy might be the effective solution you seek.
It's worth noting that insurance typically does not cover shockwave therapy, as it falls into the realm of regenerative medicine. Despite this, investing in shockwave therapy can significantly improve your foot health, allowing you to pursue your activities free from pain.
#ShockwaveTherapy #PlantarFasciitis #AchillesTendinopathy
00:00 Introduction
00:55 The history of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
01:36 Using EPAT to treat foot and ankle pain
02:24 What conditions EPAT can effectively treat
03:16 How shockwave therapy works to treat foot pain
04:35 Is shockwave therapy right for you?
05:51 How to connect with Houston podiatrist Dr. Andrew Schneider