Shockwave Therapy for Metatarsalgia
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is an effective, non-invasive treatment option for metatarsalgia, offering faster pain relief, reduced inflammation, and enhanced tissue healing.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and advice on proper footwear, it provides a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of metatarsalgia.
This holistic treatment strategy not only helps clients recover more quickly but also reduces the risk of recurrence, enabling them to return to their daily activities and sports with improved foot function and comfort.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a condition characterised by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, typically affecting the area under the metatarsal heads - the part of the foot where the toes meet the rest of the foot.
This condition is often caused by repetitive stress, improper footwear, high-impact activities, or foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions. Individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet are particularly prone to metatarsalgia.
If you think you have metatarsalgia and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now or drop us an email
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats Metatarsalgia
- Reduces pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes healing and tissue regeneration
- Improves metatarsal alignment
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 Metatarsalgia
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for metatarsalgia 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 Metatarsalgia
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating metatarsalgia, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with invasive procedures.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions, which can improve their ability to walk, run, and engage in exercise with less discomfort.
Accelerated Healing
By promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation, focused shockwave therapy can speed up the healing process and provide longer-lasting relief compared to traditional treatments.
Improved Foot Function
As pain decreases and tissue health improves, clients often regain better function and strength in their feet, enabling them to return to their regular activities more confidently.
Reduced Dependence on Medication
Effective pain management through shockwave therapy may decrease the need for pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication, minimising potential side effects.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating metatarsalgia, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Metatarsalgia
Severe pain is limiting function
If metatarsalgia is causing significant pain that severely limits daily activities or the ability to walk or stand.
Rapidly worsening condition
If the symptoms of metatarsalgia are worsening rapidly.
Chronic condition
For individuals with a history of chronic metatarsalgia or repeated flare-ups.
Resistance to standard treatments
If initial treatments such as orthotics and activity modification show little to no improvement.
To avoid surgery or injections
For clients looking to avoid more invasive treatments like corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Persistent pain
If metatarsal pain persists even after a period of rest and activity modification, particularly when pain interferes with daily activities or performance.
Contributory factors
If metatarsalgia is accompanied by other conditions like Morton's neuroma or plantar fasciitis as fSWT can address these issues simultaneously.
Early intervention with shockwave therapy can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the metatarsal region, promoting faster recovery and preventing chronic foot issues.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more.
I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain and sciatica for years, and after trying countless treatments, I finally found real relief here. Nim has been fantastic from start to finish — professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. I recently had a series of shockwave therapy sessions combined with physiotherapy, and the results have been impressive. I’ve noticed a real reduction in pain and stiffness, and I’m finally able to move more freely again. Highly recommended to anyone struggling with long-term back issues!
I can't recommend Nim enough - she isn't just a shockwave therapist (which is an amazing type of therapy in itself) but she's also a very practised and knowledgeable physiotherapist. I've been to conventional physio (both private and on the NHS) and nothing has looked at actually solving the problem that causes the pain, leading to a worsening condition of the joint itself and ever increasing pain. Nim has stopped all of that, and been able to use a holistic approach and combine it with shockwave and her specialist knowledge to treat the problem, not just the symptoms. I regret the years spent with other treatments and wish I had found her sooner!
I have known Nim now for two years and her treatment and expertise with her shock wave machine has been exceptionally good. First and foremost, Nim is very knowledgeable about her profession with vast experience in the areas of physiotherapy and shock wave treatment. More recently I have been treated with various problems on my legs mainly tendonopathy/tendonosis around my Achilles and hamstrings /thighs. The treatment is excellent, Nim explains the problems clearly and offers advice and consultation throughout the two months I’ve been seeing her. I’m very grateful as I have had pain for several years and can finally see a path forward without pain. I can highly recommend her and her treatment/facilities!! And thank you Nim!
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
