Shockwave Therapy for Ankle and Foot Pain

There are many painful foot and ankle problems that can make it difficult to enjoy all the great activities that we have available to us in Colorado. When faced with a painful ankle or foot, shockwave therapy may be a treatment that can get you back to hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, or even just walking along our beautiful trails. Having a painful ankle or foot can be a hurdle to an active life that we are so familiar with in Colorado, and in this blog, Foot and Ankle Center of the Rockies will explain how shockwave therapy can help.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment often used to help with various foot and ankle conditions. It involves the use of acoustic waves that are directed to the affected area, which helps to promote healing by stimulating blood flow, increasing collagen production, and reducing pain.

It’s commonly used for chronic conditions that don’t respond well to traditional treatments like rest, medications, or physical therapy.

Common Foot and Ankle Conditions Treated With Shockwave Therapy Include:

1. 1. Heel Pain/Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes heel pain.
   2. Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle.
   3. Tendinopathies: Conditions affecting the tendons, such as tendon degeneration or irritation.
   4. Morton’s Neuroma: Thickening of tissue around the nerve between the toes, leading to pain and discomfort.
   5. Chronic Ankle Pain: Often related to past injuries, where the tissue or bone doesn’t heal properly.
   6. Arthritis: Related to a number of foot and ankle conditions that cause pain and limitation in motion.

How Shockwave Therapy Works:

• High-energy shockwaves are applied to the skin over the painful area using a special device available in our offices.
• The energy waves stimulate the tissue and promote healing by encouraging blood flow and reducing pain.
• Shockwave therapy is usually done in short sessions, with multiple treatments required over several weeks for optimal results. 
• Often 3 or more sessions are needed (one per week at least).

Benefits:

• Non-invasive and avoids surgery.
• Can help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Promotes tissue healing and regeneration.
• Generally has minimal downtime and side effects.

Considerations:

• Some discomfort during the procedure, but most people tolerate it well.
• Not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, individuals with certain health conditions (like blood clotting disorders), or those with acute infections may not be good candidates.
• Insurance does not cover this service, but we are able to offer this service for a reasonable fee for patients.

If you’re dealing with a chronic foot or ankle condition, shockwave therapy could be an effective option. Please schedule an appointment with our office to see if Shockwave therapy would benefit you and assist in getting you back to being active, healthy, and pain free.

At Foot & Ankle Center of the Rockies, we offer a full range of podiatric services to patients with an emphasis on treatment specifically designed for you as an individual. Our practice is ready to serve your entire family with excellent care for the unique podiatric concerns of children, adults, and seniors. Whether you need a routine podiatric checkup, surgical or non-surgical treatment for a foot or ankle disorder, or custom orthotics to increase comfort and sports performance, Foot & Ankle Center of the Rockies is the right choice!