Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting more than three million people every year, according to statistics. Although it’s possible for plantar fasciitis to resolve naturally, the process can take several years before experiencing relief. However, neglecting treatments is not recommended, as it can lead to severe complications.
About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition where the tissue connecting your heel to your toes, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed or irritated. Plantar fasciitis can cause intense heel pain, usually most pronounced with the first steps in the morning. The conventional treatments, ranging from steroid injections to surgery, are invasive and come with risks and side effects.
What is Li-EST and How Does it Work?
Low-energy shockwave therapy, or Li-EST for short, is a ground-breaking approach that has emerged as non-anesthetic, repetitive, and low-energy shockwave therapy (Li-EST). This innovative treatment offers a gentler alternative and applies low-energy shockwaves directly to the site of pain, where they trigger a series of cellular reactions. These shockwaves create microlesions within the damaged tissue, prompting the release of growth factors and cytokines. These bioactive molecules orchestrate the healing process by attracting stem cells, promoting angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), tissue regeneration, and reducing inflammation. Li-EST provides relief by addressing the underlying causes of chronic plantar fasciitis rather than just masking the pain.
Recent Studies and Evidence
Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of Li-EST for chronic plantar fasciitis. In a study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine, shockwave therapy showed remarkable success in promoting bone healing and tissue regeneration, leading to complete recovery in cases of non-union fractures. Similarly, another research published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery revealed success rates of up to 73% in treating hypertrophic long-bone non-union using Li-EST. Shockwave therapy has been discovered to trigger the release of growth factors supporting blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) and bone healing (osteogenesis). These findings emphasize how mechanical stimuli can turn into electrochemical activity, known as “mechanotransduction.” This research highlights the potential of shockwave therapy for promoting healing and recovery. Shockwave has shown promise in treating stable non-unions with gaps of less than 5 mm in long bones.
Optimal Candidates and Considerations
Chronic plantar fasciitis need not be a lifelong struggle. Low-energy shockwave therapy and its minimal side effects make it an attractive option, especially for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery. Also, potential cost savings and long-term benefits make shockwave therapy a good alternative to cater to a wide variety of patients and conditions, such as golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, etc.
How to Leverage Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
If you’re looking to integrate shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis into your practice, then you’ve come to the right place. Shockwave Canada is the exclusive distributor of Storz shockwave technology, the industry leader for more than 30 years. We work with all healthcare professionals, providing 24/7 support from our expert practitioners.
Call 1-866-963-5373 or visit our website to learn more.
