Perfect for patients who have failed conservative treatments for disorders such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
What Is Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT)?
It is a fast, safe, noninvasive in-office treatment for musculoskeletal soft tissue disorders. This treatment is utilized for patients who have failed conservative treatments for disorders such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
RSWT was developed in Europe during the 1990s, but was derived from lithotripsy, a treatment for breaking up kidney stones with sound waves.
How Does Radial Shockwave Therapy Work?
A heavy, electromagnetically accelerated, ballistic projectile transfers its kinetic energy to a transmitter head in the hand piece. This kinetic energy is converted into impact energy in the applicator head. This results in shockwaves that spread out radially from the contact area into the selected treatment area of the foot or ankle.
Current research indicates that the mechanical stimulation from the shockwaves is able to trigger reactive systems in the cellular structure, leading to increased cell membrane permeability (increasing localized circulation and metabolism) resulting in healing of the soft tissue treatment area. This healing results in the reduction or elimination of your pain.
How Is The Treatment Performed?
RSWT is performed in a regular office patient suite. No anesthesia is required, and no incisions are made. Each treatment lasts approximately 5 – 10 minutes where the doctor will apply mineral oil to the target area. The RSWT hand piece is then placed gently against injured area to receive a specified number of radial pulses. The typical treatment area requires 3 separate treatments spaced about 1 week apart. Severe conditions may require up to additional 1-3 treatments.
Does RSWT Hurt?
Current in office devices do not produce significant pain. Many of our patients describe the sensation as “mild discomfort” or “almost like a clapping sensation”. The vast majority of patients do not require anesthesia.
What is the success rate of RSWT?
Studies indicate that the cure rate is approximately 70-80 percent for plantar fasciitis with similar results expected for Achilles tendonitis.
Are There Any People Who Aren't Eligible for RSWT?
RSWT should not be used on patients with nerve or circulation disorder, bone tumor, infection, or metabolic condition. RSWT cannot be used in an area of open wound nor in women who are pregnant.
When Do I Know I Am Ready for RSWT?
1. You have been diagnosed with a foot or ankle condition that RSWT is effective in treating.
2. You have no contraindication to the treatment.
3. Other conservative treatment methods have failed.
4. Surgery is the only other treatment option.
