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On NBC's "The Doctor's" Dr. Bob performs Shockwave Therapy treatment for plantar fasciitis before a live studio audience.
What is extracorporeal shockwave therapy?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-surgical treatment for plantar fascitis/fasciosis and Achilles tendonitis/tendinosis. ESWT is often used for chronic injuries that have not responded to conservative treatments, such as stretching, physical therapy, and orthotics.
Shockwave therapy produces various levels of controlled trauma that cause inflammation and trigger the body’s natural healing processes.
Dr. Baravarian is one of the few providers in the nation who offer high-intensity and low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy.
What to expect during shockwave treatment
Using a specially designed applicator, ESWT works by focusing shockwaves (sound waves) directly at the painful or injured part of your foot. The shockwaves produce micro-traumas to the soft tissue that’s causing your pain.
Your body reacts to these micro-traumas by signaling for an increased blood supply to the painful area. This procedure also helps break down calcifications, injured tendons, ligaments, and muscles, as well as scar tissue. It can also increase blood vessel formation, increasing nutrient flow to the injured area. This helps your body heal itself and reduces the need for potential surgical intervention.
This in-office, 15-minute procedure is typically performed with minimal anesthesia and minimal pain. Usually, patients receive three shockwave treatments, one per week. Low-intensity ESWT is generally performed in the office and requires no anesthesia. As the name suggests, it’s less intense than high-intensity shockwave therapy, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle during the healing process.
In some instances, high-intensity shockwave therapy may be the most effective treatment option. Since this can cause more discomfort during the procedure, it may require monitored anesthesia. The good news is that it usually requires just one treatment.
How does shockwave therapy work for chronic pain?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that has been increasingly used for chronic pain relief, especially in musculoskeletal conditions. Dr. Baravarian chooses this non-invasive treatment option because of its wide range of benefits.
ESWT improves chronic pain through:
- Pain reduction: Shockwave therapy is believed to have a direct effect on nerve fibers, reducing pain signals transmitted to the brain.
- Increased blood flow: The high-energy acoustic waves stimulate blood circulation in the affected area. Improved blood flow and the development of new blood vessels bring essential nutrients and oxygen, which are necessary for the healing process, thereby aiding in the repair of damaged tissue.
- Stimulation of healing: ESWT can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. It enhances cellular repair and regeneration by promoting the release of growth factors and attracting stem cells to the affected area.
- Breakdown of calcified fibroblasts: In conditions like calcific tendonitis, shockwave therapy helps break down calcified fibroblasts (calcium deposits) in the tendons. Removing these deposits can relieve pain and restore function.
What is post-shockwave recovery?
Patients typically experience mild improvement after their first visit, significant progress after the second treatment, and can return to regular work and activities after the third treatment.
While patients occasionally experience soreness in the procedure area, it typically lasts no more than 24 hours, and there is no downtime required. Your doctor will explain how to deal with any discomfort, which can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
It typically takes several months to reap all the pain-reduction benefits of shockwave therapy.
Dr. Bob Baravarian: Pioneering shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis
Dr. Bob trained in shockwave therapy as a treatment to reduce heel pain. Clinical studies have shown that individuals undergoing shockwave treatment experience significantly reduced pain and an improved quality of life.
Patients rely on Dr. Bob’s decades of experience in developing, researching, and using cutting-edge technologies to help bring pain-free activity back to their lives. Whether you want to compete in sports again or play with your kids, you can trust him to know if advanced therapies such as shockwave therapy will be effective for you.
If you’re experiencing foot pain and haven’t received adequate relief or care, or if you need an independent second opinion, please contact Dr. Baravarian today to schedule a consultation.
For a consultation, please call (855) 557-5400 or make an appointment online now.
Dr. Bob Baravarian is conveniently located in Los Angeles, near Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, providing expert foot and ankle care for patients throughout Southern California.
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
What are the success rates of shockwave therapy for the treatment of plantar fasciitis? How many sessions does it usually take?
Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis usually takes 3-4 sessions and has a 70% success rate. Dr. Baravarian can also discuss other options once he has a better understanding of your exact condition.
Is Shockwave FDA-approved?
Yes. Shockwave is an FDA-cleared technology.
What are the possible side effects of shockwave?
Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical procedure with virtually no side effects. In some cases, patients may experience minor discomfort for a few days.
Aside from foot and ankle conditions, what other orthopedic ailments is Shockwave therapy used for?
Shockwave therapy is used for a broad spectrum of conditions, extending beyond foot and ankle ailments. It proves effective in treating tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, rotator cuff tendinitis, shoulder tendinopathy, back pain, hip and shoulder bursitis, and other sports-related injuries.
