Radial Shockwave Treatment in Louisville, KY
At New Horizons Foot and Ankle Associates, we are committed to leveraging cutting-edge medical technology to provide effective solutions for our patients
What is Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy is an FDA cleared technology proven to increase the rate of healing for soft tissue tendinopathy, muscle pain, and ligament pain. It is an advanced, non-invasive and highly effective treatment method that enhances blood circulation and accelerates the healing process causing damaged tissue to gradually regenerate.
Common Conditions Helped by Radial Shockwave Treatment
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinopathy
- Neuromas
- Retrocalcaneal Bursitis
- Stress Fractures
- Non-Unions
What to Expect During Radial Shockwave Therapy for Foot Pain
At our Louisville, KY Podiatry Clinics, our technicians utilize a handheld probe to emit high-energy sound waves targeting the foot’s arch, heel, or Achilles tendon. The treatment may feel like pressure, vibration, or small pulses against the skin. Starting with low pressure, our technicians gradually increase intensity. While most patients report some discomfort, it’s generally not painful and delivers exceptional results.
Preparation
You’ll remove your shoes and socks, lie on a cushioned table, and have ultrasound gel applied to your heels. You may also receive a local anesthetic or sedative if needed.
Treatment
Your doctor will administer shock waves to your heels, which can feel like a jackhammering or ratcheting sound. Each treatment lasts about 10–20 minutes per foot, and you may require 3–6 sessions over several weeks.
Aftercare
After treatment, you may experience swelling, redness, bruising, or calf aching and numbness. It’s recommended to avoid high-impact exercise for 48 hours, but continue any exercises your physiotherapist suggests. Most symptoms should improve within a couple of days, allowing you to resume normal activities before your next treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does RSWT work?
When you experience chronic pain, your body no longer recognizes that there is an injury to that area. As a result, it shuts down the healing process and you feel no relief. The ballistic sound waves of the Enpuls penetrate deep through your soft tissue, causing a micro-trauma or new inflammatory condition to the treated area. Once this occurs, it then triggers your body’s natural healing response once again. The energy emitted also causes the cells in the soft tissue to release certain bio-chemicals that intensify the body’s natural healing process. These bio-chemicals allow for the building of an array of new microscopic blood vessels in the soft tissue.
What do studies show?
There have been extensive studies done on Radial Shockwave Therapy over the past 20 years showing an average of 80% success rate, which is increased with combination therapies.
How is RSWT performed?
The system is a machine with an applicator that looks like an ultrasound.
It is administered once a week for a series of 4 to 5 treatments (can vary depending on individual cases)
Each treatment takes approximately 5 minutes depending on the size and number of areas treated.
All treatments are performed by experienced professionals.
Our Doctor is a Physician Associate of The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery – one of only two doctors in the State accepted in this prestigious organization dedicated to the advancement of state-of-the-art technology – coupled with science – advancing Medicine and Surgery. During your treatment, the Doctor applies the applicator to the area of concern and administers the ballistic waves by moving over the affected area in a very slow, and methodical manner. The Doctor will ask the patient to identify the point of “most” pain to further direct the most effective course of therapy. During the treatment, there may be some minor discomfort. Painful areas are helpful in isolating the truly injured areas. Our office provides supplemental protocols to help manage and minimize the discomfort that may be experienced during treatment.
Why consider Radial Shockwave Therapy?
RSWT has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods, including surgery, without the risks, complications, and lengthy recovery periods. There are no incisions and no risk of infection, or scar tissue, like with surgery.
There is no need for anesthesia to be administered during the treatment, as opposed to high-energy shockwave therapy. Patients treated with RSWT may be active immediately and resume their normal routine the same day. Many patients find a significant and immediate reduction in their pain. Some patients will feel results gradually after each treatment.
Why RSWT instead of Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is 2 to 3 times a week, for 6 weeks and you are at the facility for no less than an hour. More importantly, there is usually a co-pay required for every visit which could be $40 or more. Over a six week period or 15 visits, this can add up to $600 in out of pocket co-pays. The RSWT treatments are only once a week, for 5 minutes each. This is a highly effective modality which is faster and more effective than Physical therapy, and the cost of the RSWT treatments are usually LESS than the total of your PT co-pays. If you want FASTER results in LESS TIME, and would like to SAVE MONEY, the RSWT treatment is a better choice for you!
What are the possible side effects?
There have been very few side effects reported. In rare cases, skin bruising may occur. Patients may also feel soreness in the area for a day or two afterward, similar to a strenuous workout.
Will I be in pain afterward?
A day or two after the treatment you may feel a slight discomfort like a bruise, but that is normal and is a sign the treatment is working.
Is it covered by my Insurance?
No. RSWT is not covered by insurance plans, however our practice offers several, affordable payment plans to assist you. Ask our office about any ongoing specials.
From Our Podiatrist
One of the most common issues patients present with is heel pain, or generalized pain along the foot, ankle or leg. Often our patients are used to some level of exercise or physical activity – whether it be running, hiking, or simply walking. Pain in the feet and ankles can be very limiting to daily lifestyle and quality. We offer several conservative and traditional options to treat such issues such as medical orthotics, stretching, physical therapy, injection therapy – and in severe cases surgery. However, one added option that is available to our patients is RSWT, which can deliver results faster, more efficiently, and get patients back to their lives.
Dr. C. Patel, Physician Associate, Surgical Associate
American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc.
Request Radial Shockwave Therapy for Foot Pain
New Horizons Foot and Ankle Associates offers state-of-the-art Laser Medicine and Surgery treatment options for a wide range of foot and ankle issues.
