What is plantar fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue on the surface of the heel that plays a large role in maintaining the normal mechanics of the foot. Plantar fasciitis, also commonly referred to as heel spurs, is a common clinical condition caused by overuse or injury of the area. Symptoms include heel pain, burning in the sole of the foot, recurring foot pain that is especially present in the morning or after sitting, or heel pain after beginning a new exercise routine.

What causes plantar fasciitis?
There are a number of predisposing factors, including the way you walk, obesity, poor fitting shoes, minor trauma, occupational risks and change in your exercise program. Although everyone is at risk, plantar fasciitis is most commonly found in athletes, runners, overweight individuals, or those who are required to stand on hard surfaces for prolonged periods of time.

What devices are used?
There are currently two devices approved by the FDA for the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis, the OssaTron ® by HealthTronics, Inc., approved in October 2000, and the Epos Ultra ® by Dornier, Inc., approved in January 2002. Both systems result in equally successful patient outcomes and are high-energy devices that utilize a single treatment protocol.

How can I locate a credentialed physician in my area?
To find a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon credentialed with United Shockwave Therapies, simply search our website database. On the menu bar above, click on Podiatrist Search and search by zip code to find a participating physician in your geographic area.

How do I schedule an appointment?
Once you and your podiatrist decide that you are an appropriate candidate for ESWT, your podiatrist's office will contact our scheduling department. Your podiatrist's office will inform you of the date, time, and location of the procedure.

Am I a candidate for ESWT?
If you have been diagnosed with and treated for chronic plantar fasciitis for at least six months and have failed to respond to three conservative treatments, you may be a candidate for ESWT. Conservative treatments include rest, physical therapy, heel cushions, NSAIDs, cortisone injections, taping, orthotics, shoe modifications, night splinting and casting.

ESWT is not recommended if you have a pacemaker, if you are taking medications that may prolong or interfere with blood clotting (coumadin), or if you are pregnant. Your doctor can discuss other possible concerns with you. ESWT is not appropriate for individuals suffering from acute plantar fasciitis. Your health history should be reviewed with your doctor to see if this treatment is appropriate for you.

What should I expect on treatment day?
On the day of the treatment, expect to arrive at the treatment facility approximately 20-30 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment time. Our technician will meet you with some paperwork and your physician will be there to answer any last minute questions you may have. After the brief registration process, you will recline in a comfortable chair or bed with your injured foot resting on a large, fluid-filled cushion.

After the administration of the ankle block and the localization of the inflamed area with the ultrasound, shockwaves will be delivered to the injured heel. The outpatient procedure lasts approximately 20 minutes per injured foot.

Following the procedure, you will be discharged home from the treatment facility and will be provided with instructions and exercises that are important and necessary to your recovery.