Do you have a stubborn case of plantar fasciitis? If corticosteroid shots, night splints, physical therapy and other treatments haven't relieved your pain, extracorporeal shockwave therapy may be helpful. The therapy is offered by your Brooklyn Heights, NY, podiatrists, Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Dr. Joseph C. Stuto of Stuto Foot Specialists Podiatry.

What is shockwave therapy?

During your visit to the Brooklyn Heights, NY, podiatry office, your foot doctor may recommend shockwave therapy if you've had plantar fasciitis pain for at least six months and your condition hasn't improved with more conservative treatments.

Shockwave therapy involves aiming high-energy soundwaves, called "shock" waves, at the tissues in your heel. The treatment:

• Improves blood flow
• Generates new blood vessels
• Triggers the growth of new cells
• Promotes healing
• Decreases inflammation
• Relieves pain

If you're in good health, you're probably a good candidate for shockwave therapy. The therapy isn't recommended if you have neuropathy, take medication that affects blood clotting, have a vascular foot disease, are pregnant, have a seizure condition or wear a pacemaker.

What happens during shockwave therapy?

Your foot doctor applies a gel that makes it easier for the shockwaves to penetrate your tissues. They will then place a probe against your skin that sends the shockwaves into your tissues. The entire treatment usually takes less than 30 minutes.

After your treatment, you may have mild pain for a day or two that can be controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. You'll be able to walk on your foot as soon as the anesthetic wears off, although you should avoid running and other vigorous forms of exercise for a few weeks.

You'll probably begin to feel better after your first session, although you may need several therapy sessions to experience the full benefits of extracorporeal shockwave therapy. Treatment time takes about 15-20 minutes, with three treatments total one week apart.

Are you struggling with plantar fasciitis? Shockwave therapy could help speed the healing process and ease your pain. Call your podiatrists in Brooklyn Heights, NY, Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Dr. Joseph C. Stuto of Stuto Foot Specialists Podiatry to schedule an appointment. Call us at (718) 624-7537.