How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take to Work
If you're experiencing foot or ankle pain from an injury or condition such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, you may consider shockwave therapy as a treatment option. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing and promote blood flow to the affected area. But how long does it take for shockwave therapy to work, and what can you expect during recovery?
Timeline for Recovery and Results
Severity of The Condition
The timeline for recovery and results from the therapy will depend on the severity of the injury or condition being treated. More severe conditions, such as fractures or chronic inflammation, may take longer to heal than milder conditions like plantar fasciitis. The podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist will evaluate the patient's condition and provide an estimate of the number of sessions required for optimal results.
Number of Sessions Required
Patients generally expect improvement after three to five sessions of shockwave therapy. However, the number of sessions required will depend on the severity of the condition and how well the patient responds to treatment. Some patients may require additional sessions to achieve optimal results.
Length of Time Between Sessions
The time between sessions can also affect the timeline for recovery and results. In most cases, patients will have a therapy session once a week for three to five weeks. However, in some cases, the sessions may be scheduled more frequently or less frequently, depending on the patient's condition.
Recovery Time
While this therapy is a non-invasive treatment that typically recovers faster than surgery, patients should still expect to take some time to heal fully. The recovery time will depend on the severity of the condition and how well the patient responds to treatment.
During recovery, patients should avoid activities that could exacerbate the injury or condition being treated. This may include avoiding high-impact activities or wearing supportive footwear.
Follow-Up Care
After the therapy sessions, the podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist may recommend follow-up care, such as massage or physical therapy, to help the patient fully recover. Patients should follow their provider's recommendations for additional treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.
By understanding the timeline for recovery and results from shockwave therapy, patients can decide whether this treatment is right for them. It's important to consult with a podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist to determine if this therapy is the best treatment option for their condition.
Recovery Process
Avoiding High-Impact Activities
During recovery, patients should avoid activities that could exacerbate the injury or condition being treated. This may include avoiding high-impact activities like running or jumping and wearing supportive footwear to provide additional cushioning and protection.
Rest and Recovery
The body needs time to heal after shockwave therapy, so patients should rest and care for themselves during recovery. This may include getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet to support the body's natural healing process.
Managing Symptoms
After a shockwave therapy session, patients may experience soreness or inflammation in the treated area. This is a normal part of the healing process. Still, patients can manage their symptoms by using ice packs, over-the-counter pain medication, or following their podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist's recommendations for pain management.
Following up With the Provider
Patients must follow up with their providers after shockwave therapy sessions to ensure the best possible outcome. The podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist may recommend follow-up care such as massage or physical therapy to help the patient fully recover.
Timeframe for Full Recovery
The timeframe for full recovery after shockwave therapy will depend on the severity of the condition and how well the patient responds to treatment. Patients should not expect immediate results but instead, focus on the long-term benefits of the treatment. The recovery process may take several weeks or months, but patients should see improvement in their symptoms as they heal.
By following the recommendations of their podiatrist or foot and ankle specialist and caring for themselves during recovery, patients can ensure the best possible outcome from shockwave therapy. Discussing concerns or questions with the provider ensures a comprehensive and successful recovery.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate the healing process in the body. The waves are directed at the affected area, stimulating new tissue production, boosting blood flow, and relieving inflammation.
There are two types of shockwave therapy: radial and focused. Radial shockwave therapy is used for more superficial conditions, while focused shockwave therapy is used for deeper injuries, such as fractures or scar tissue.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Foot and Ankle Pain
Shockwave therapy is effective for various foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs. Patients report relief from pain, improved range of motion, and faster recovery times.
During a therapy session, the waves are directed at the affected area, stimulating the healing process by promoting blood flow and tissue regeneration. The treatment is non-invasive and typically takes 15 minutes per session.
What to Expect During a Shockwave Therapy Session
During a shockwave therapy session, the patient will lie down while the provider directs the acoustic waves at the affected area. The waves may feel uncomfortable or slightly painful, but the intensity can be adjusted to the patient's comfort level.
After the session, patients may experience some soreness or inflammation in the treated area. This is a normal healing process and should subside within a few days.
Conclusion
Shockwave therapy is an effective and non-invasive treatment for foot and ankle pain. While the timeline for recovery and results may vary based on the severity of the injury or condition, patients can generally expect improvement after three to five sessions. By understanding the recovery process and what to expect during treatment, patients can make an informed decision about whether this therapy is the right treatment option for them. If you're experiencing foot or ankle pain, talk to your provider to see if shockwave therapy suits you.