Shockwave Therapy

Experts now say that New Shock Wave Therapy is an alternative treatment before resorting to surgery, which has a lengthy recovery time and carries the risk of complications.

The Food and Drug Administration late last year approved a shock wave device, the Dornier Epos Ultra, for adults who have been treated conservatively with little to no relief. This device is similar to the sound wave treatment that has been used for years to break up kidney stone

During the treatment, shock waves are focused on the point of maximal tenderness on the heel as it is bombarded with high intensity sound waves. Patients do not feel any pain because the area is anesthetized with local anesthesia. The theory is that the sound waves break up the scar tissue and inflammation, which allows normal healing tissue to repair the injury and alleviate the pain.

The ultrasound imaging system provides a live ‘picture’ of the inside of your foot to indicate the exact treatment site where shock waves are being delivered. The shockwave therapy system produces the actual shock waves, which are delivered outside your body through the therapy head’s water-filled cushion. The therapy head is attached to the end of an arm-like device on the system. This articulated arm moves easily so that the therapy head can be lined up closely to your foot.

Dr. Brenna Steinberg is among the handful of Podiatric Surgeons in Maryland who are trained to perform this innovative new procedure. Patients resume normal activity and wear regular shoes the day after the procedure.

Shock wave therapy is not for everyone and should not be used on people with bleeding problems, those taking medication that interfere with blood clotting, or for children or pregnant women. The therapy cost is covered by many of the major insurance companies.