Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for Heel & Achilles Pain in London

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave therapy is a well-established medical treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to promote healing and pain relief, making it an effective treatment for chronic tendon pain. The therapy works by delivering a series of shockwaves to the affected area, which stimulates blood circulation, accelerates tissue repair, and reduces pain as part of non-surgical pain management therapies.

These waves are effective for pain relief, injury prevention, and healing, making them particularly helpful in treating musculoskeletal conditions like Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy.

Each session also increases blood supply to the injured area, enhancing the body's natural healing mechanisms, while promoting collagen production and the release of growth factors — both essential for repairing damaged tissue and reducing pain. By triggering these biological processes, shockwave therapy accelerates the recovery of damaged tendons and tissues that haven't responded to rest, physiotherapy or medication.

What Happens at the Cellular Level?

Tendons, including those in the feet and lower legs, are made up of cells called tenocytes, which maintain and repair tendon tissue. When a tendon is injured, the body’s ability to repair itself can stall, leading to persistent pain and discomfort.

ESWT re-stimulates these tenocytes, encouraging them to produce collagen (the primary protein in tendons) and growth factors that play a crucial role in tissue healing, while increasing blood flow to the damaged area. Studies show that shockwave therapy boosts the release of Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) — essential for rebuilding damaged tendons, improving their function and strength.

Can Shockwave Therapy Solve My Plantar Fasciitis & Achilles Tendinopathy Pain?

If you’re struggling with the persistent pain of Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendinopathy, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) could be the solution you've been looking for. However, it's important to note that ESWT is not always a stand-alone treatment. Our experienced podiatrists will create a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

At Flawless Feet, we understand that every patient's journey is different. Your treatment plan will consider factors such as your injury, your desired activity levels, occupation, and your treatment goals. While ESWT is a great option for those who have not responded well to conservative treatments like physiotherapy, rest, steroid injections, and painkillers, our podiatrists ensure that your plan is comprehensive and aligned with your long-term goals.

Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy?

ESWT is a versatile treatment that can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, but it is particularly effective for:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Chronic heel pain, especially under the heel or arch.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Pain in the Achilles tendon, often exacerbated by physical activity.
• Other Tendon Injuries: ESWT can also help with other tendon injuries like Patellar Tendinopathy (knee pain), Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, and Tennis Elbow.

Who Should Avoid Shockwave Therapy?

While ESWT is generally safe, it is not suitable for everyone. People with the following conditions should avoid shockwave therapy:

• Cancer patients (due to potential complications)
• Pregnant women
• People with damaged lung, brain, or spinal tissue in the treatment area

Always consult with your podiatrist to ensure that shockwave therapy is safe and appropriate for your condition.

What to Expect During Your Shockwave Therapy Session

Treatment Duration and Frequency

Each ESWT session typically lasts 10-15 minutes. Depending on your condition, you may need 3-6 sessions, spaced about 1-2 weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Our podiatrists will develop a treatment plan based on your specific needs and injury severity.

Some patients notice improvement early in the course, but for most people the benefit builds across the sessions. Completing the full course gives the best chance of avoiding more invasive options if the condition is becoming chronic.

During the Session

You will lie comfortably while the podiatrist applies a gel to the treatment area. The shockwave device will then be placed on the skin, delivering waves of energy to the injured tissue. Most patients feel a mild to moderate sensation during the procedure, but it should not be painful. The sensation is typically described as a series of quick taps or pressure pulses.

After the Session

Following treatment, you may experience some temporary soreness in the treated area. This is a normal response as your body begins the healing process. Most people are able to return to normal activities immediately, although we recommend avoiding intense physical activity for a few days to allow the tissue to heal properly.

Why Choose Flawless Feet for Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?

At Flawless Feet Podiatry & Laser Clinic, we are committed to providing the highest level of care and the most effective treatments for Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy. Our podiatrists have extensive experience using ESWT to treat a wide variety of foot and lower limb conditions. With locations in Sydenham, Croydon, and Covent Garden, we are conveniently situated to provide top-quality care across London.