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.
Having previously tried radial shockwave treatment, which was painful (due to the hammering action) and ineffective, I did some research and decided to try FSWT. I noticed an immediate pain reduction in relation to my plantar fasciitis, which had been persistent for over 6 months. The improvement to my knee pain came more gradually, but it had been an issue for many years. But after 5 treatments I was almost pain free. Nim was very professional and friendly and also offered advice on when to avoid and start normal activities and also included stretching programmes. I'm glad I made the investment and managed to get myself back to my outdoor hobbies before summer.
After almost two years of either living in (sometimes debilitating) pain with plantar fasciitis (PF) and not doing anything about it or having some unproductive and even counterproductive osteopathy and physiotherapy sessions/advice, I did some research into best treatments for PF and found Nim's focussed shockwave therapy (FSWT).
After 3 sets of FSWT sessions I'm now almost pain free, and I'm certain that a few more sessions will completely eradicate the PF. Unfortunately, at the end of last year I was hit with painful sciatica, and an MRI confirmed that I have two herniated discs (HDs). Nim advised me that FSWT works wonders with HDs, and since this is now my main complaint, we decided to focus on the sciatica, and will then intercalate the PF treatment. I'm feeling very positive about it!
Nim is a very knowledgeable, competent and professional physiotherapist, and an incredibly kind and caring person. She is always patient and keeps reassuring me every time I get frustrated. In addition to the FSWT sessions, I was given a tailored home stretch and self-treatment programme, both for the PF and for the HDs/sciatica.
I cannot recommend Nim and her magical machine enough! Thank you for everything, Nim :)
I came to Nim several months ago frustrated and in pain with a herniated disc what just wasn't healing. I arrived with restricted movement and pain everyday, even when I coughed of sneezed! I paid for 2 sets of shockwave therapy and it is the first time in a year where I feel like myself again. She not only provided the treatment but also was kind, and incredibly reassuring in my moments of frustration. Thank you for everything!
I had started to develop pain in the ball of my foot when I ran and then the pain continued when I walked. I went to the docs and got a diagnosis of a mortons neuroma. After trying various ways to manage the pain, I did some research and found Nim's focussed shockwave therapy. It was a tough commitment to come to 5 sessions in London when I live in Redcar (North East of England) but totally worth it. The pain I had when I run has gone and hopefully it won't come back as I start to increase my distance and frequency.
I 100% recommend Nim, she is such a lovely caring person and made me feel very comfortable during the treatment and also gave me plenty of good advice ☺️
I was struggling with bi-lateral achilles tendinopathy and retrocalcaneal bursitis which was impacting my ability to play sport. Over a number of sessions the Shockwave reduced the swelling, scar-tissue and most importantly the pain and both issues are now completely resolved. I also found Nim extremely professional and really nice to deal with. Recommended.
