Plantar Fascia & Heel Pain
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Plantar Fascia & Heel Pain
Acoustic-wave therapy is sometimes considered for persistent plantar heel pain after conservative care.
More infoWhat is shockwave therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) delivers brief, controlled acoustic pulses through the skin to a targeted area. Focused shockwave devices and radial pressure-wave devices use different technologies and should not be treated as identical.
How is it performed?
A clinician assesses the painful area, applies coupling gel, and moves a handheld applicator over the treatment site. Sessions are typically brief; some people need several visits. Treatment can cause discomfort, and settings depend on the condition and device.
What happens in the tissue?
Mechanical pulses interact with tissues and may influence pain signaling and biological responses. Researchers are investigating possible effects on blood flow and tissue remodeling, but the precise mechanisms and clinical benefit vary by indication.
Possible benefits and limitations
For certain persistent tendon and fascia problems, some studies report improved pain or function. Results are not guaranteed; exercise therapy and other established treatments often remain important. Possible side effects include temporary soreness, redness, swelling, or bruising.
Shockwave is not appropriate for every patient or body area. Device type, diagnosis, pregnancy status, bleeding risk, and other medical factors should be reviewed before treatment. The applications below describe clinical use or research, not a promise of benefit.
Where shockwave is being used or studied
Achilles Tendon Problems
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Achilles Tendon Problems
An adjunct option for selected persistent Achilles tendon symptoms.
More infoShoulder & Rotator Cuff
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Shoulder & Rotator Cuff
Research includes calcific shoulder tendinopathy; evidence depends on the diagnosis.
More infoTennis & Golfer’s Elbow
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Tennis & Golfer’s Elbow
Acoustic-wave approaches have been studied for persistent elbow tendon pain.
More infoHip & Gluteal Tendons
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Hip & Gluteal Tendons
Explore applications in selected lateral hip and gluteal tendon complaints.
More infoKnee & Patellar Tendon
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Knee & Patellar Tendon
Research explores patellar tendon symptoms and rehabilitation support.
More infoMuscle & Sports Recovery
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Muscle & Sports Recovery
Learn about proposed uses for selected soft-tissue and sports-related complaints.
More infoMen’s Sexual Health
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Men’s Sexual Health
Low-intensity shockwave has been researched for erectile dysfunction; it remains investigational.
More infoWound & Tissue Research
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Further reading
British Journal of Sports Medicine: expert recommendations · NICE: plantar fascia guidance · NICE: calcific shoulder guidance