Shockwave Therapy for Heel Spurs
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for heel spurs, particularly when associated with plantar fasciitis.
By breaking down the heel spur, reducing pain, decreasing inflammation, and promoting tissue healing, shockwave therapy can significantly improve symptoms and enhance the quality of life for clients with this condition.
Early fSWT can prevent the condition from worsening or becoming chronic.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus) and is often linked to chronic strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
Heel spurs develop due to:
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Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
Prolonged inflammation of the plantar fascia can lead to the development of a heel spur as the body tries to heal the repeated micro-tears by depositing calcium.
Repetitive Strain
Activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can stress the plantar fascia and contribute to heel spur formation.
Improper Footwear
Shoes that lack proper support can exacerbate the condition.
Symptoms of Heel Spurs:
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Sharp Pain
Often felt under the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning.
Chronic Pain
Persistent pain during prolonged standing or walking.
Inflammation
The area around the heel may be tender and swollen.
If you think you have a heel spur and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats Heel Spur
- Stimulates healing
- Reduces pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Breaks down calcifications
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for Heel Spur
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for heel spur usually involves 5 to 8 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the condition.
Minimal Downtime
Clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous or high-impact activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Heel Spur
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgical intervention.
Effective Pain Relief
Significant pain relief is often reported after a few sessions, with continued improvement
over the course of treatment.
Accelerated Healing
Shockwave therapy can accelerate the healing process, helping clients return to normal
activities more quickly.
Improved Functionality
Many clients experience better foot function and mobility, with a reduction in morning stiffness and pain.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that focused shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating heel spurs, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Heel Spur
Severe pain is restricting function
If heel spurs cause severe pain that significantly limits the ability to walk, stand, or perform daily activities.
Fast recovery
For individuals who are highly active and want to expedite recovery and return to their usual activities.
Rapidly worsening condition
If the pain associated with heel spurs is worsening quickly early fSWT can prevent further deterioration and manage pain more effectively.
Chronic heel pain
For individuals with a history of chronic heel pain or recurrent plantar fasciitis.
No surgery or injections
For clients who prefer to avoid invasive treatments like corticosteroid injections, surgical intervention or are not candidates for surgery.
Focused shockwave therapy applied early can break down calcium deposits, relieve pain, and improve mobility in the heel, potentially avoiding surgical interventions.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
Received 6 weeks treat on shoulder and I was very pleased with the outcome, Nim gave me guidance on further work after treatment which to strengthen both shoulders next and hips.
Excellent!!!!
I first found Nim and her Shockwaves treatment in 2020 when I had severe Plantar Fasciitis in one foot - I couldn’t walk at all, it was horrendous. She had me back on my feet with Shockwaves treatment and specially made insoles.
Then last October I had a bad fall and broke two vertebrae in my upper back and damaged the surrounding muscles - I was in total agony. Thankfully I was able to see Nim, and after having Shockwaves treatment for a few weeks the pain was more or less gone. She also gave me stretching exercises etc.
I will always return to Nim whenever I need to. I say she has “magic hands” as she finds the problem immediately and her massages are second to none!
I highly recommend her as she’s also a really lovely person.
I am delighted with the results on my Dupuytren's nodule. After 5 sessions of shockwave therapy with Nim, the nodule in my hand has reduced to a fraction of its size, it is no longer painful and is not pulling my finger in. It was a massive relief to find a treatment that can be done early for this condition and without the need for invasive painful surgery, injections or radiation. Several weeks after the treatment finished it is still continuing to improve. Shockwave therapy does feels a bit strange and uncomfortable at first but you very quickly get used to it and I had no ill effects from the treatment. I can highly recommend Nim and shockwave therapy.
I’ve been seeing Nim since 2019 for various badminton-related injuries, and I can’t recommend her enough! Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but she always takes the time to explain exactly what she’s doing and why. I really appreciate her approach—she believes that the more you know, the better you can take care of yourself, and I’ve learned so much from her over the years.
Nim is also a shockwave treatment specialist, and I’ve recommended her to many of my badminton colleagues, especially those who could benefit from this particular therapy. Her friendly demeanor combined with her expertise makes every session comfortable and effective. If you’re in need of physiotherapy or considering shockwave treatment, Nim is definitely the person to see!
My Morton's Neuroma : NHS cortisone injections made no difference to my painful stiff and inflamed foot pad. I did not want surgery so found Shockwave and Nim. She gave me a very thorough examination and identified issues with my spine and hips that did not help. After a series of Shockwave treatments and advice on stretching, my right foot improved becoming soft and much less painful. I decided to have a follow up series of treatment this summer. Although not cured, compared to 2 years ago when I could not walk for more than 10 minutes if at all, I can now be on my feet wslking for hours. Plus the stretching advice and motivation has helped with my hip mobility too.
