© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical procedure that utilizes low-energy sound waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. This technique is particularly effective for chronic heel pain, commonly associated with plantar fasciitis and heel spur syndrome, as well as other orthopedic issues. During the procedure, strong sound waves are directed precisely at the painful area, promoting healing and alleviating discomfort. The device employed in ESWT is akin to those used in the non-surgical treatment of kidney stones, highlighting its versatility in addressing different medical conditions. The treatment session typically lasts around 30 minutes and is conducted under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The pressure waves generated during the therapy travel through fluid and soft tissue, exerting their therapeutic effects at specific sites where there is a change in impedance, such as the interface between bone and soft tissue. This targeted approach aims to stimulate healing processes and reduce pain in the affected areas.
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