Heel pain is a common issue that can disrupt daily activities, making simple movements uncomfortable. One of the most frequent causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition that affects the tissue running along the bottom of the foot. For individuals suffering from this condition, shockwave therapy offers an effective, non-invasive solution to help alleviate pain and promote healing.
For those searching for shockwave therapy near me in San Diego, CA, this innovative treatment has gained popularity due to its ability to target the root causes of heel pain, offering relief without the need for surgery or prolonged recovery times.
In this blog, we’ll explore how shockwave therapy works for chronic pain, particularly plantar fasciitis, and how chiropractic care can provide additional benefits for those dealing with heel pain.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis and How Does It Cause Heel Pain?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. The inflammation usually results from overuse, excessive pressure, or improper footwear, and it often causes sharp pain, especially in the heel area.
This condition is common among people who engage in high-impact activities, stand for long periods, or have structural issues in their feet, such as flat feet or high arches. The pain typically worsens after prolonged periods of standing or walking and is most noticeable with the first steps in the morning.
What Is Shockwave Therapy for Heel Pain?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It’s particularly effective for conditions like plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal issues, including tendonitis and calcific shoulder tendinopathy. The therapy works by sending sound waves to the affected area, which helps to break down scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote blood flow to the damaged tissue.
For those suffering from heel pain due to plantar fasciitis, shockwave therapy can help by targeting the inflammation in the plantar fascia, reducing pain, and encouraging the body’s natural healing processes.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Help with Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain?
Shockwave therapy offers several key benefits for individuals suffering from heel pain and plantar fasciitis:
1. Promotes Healing
Shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing processes by increasing blood flow to the affected area. This improved circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the injured tissue, accelerating the healing of the plantar fascia.
2. Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is the primary cause of pain in plantar fasciitis, and shockwave therapy is effective at reducing this inflammation. By applying sound waves to the inflamed tissue, shockwave therapy helps to reduce swelling, which leads to pain relief.
3. Breaks Down Scar Tissue
Over time, the inflammation from plantar fasciitis can cause the formation of scar tissue in the affected area. Shockwave therapy helps to break down this scar tissue, promoting the regeneration of healthy tissue and improving the function of the plantar fascia.
4. Non-Surgical and Drug-Free
One of the main advantages of shockwave therapy is that it’s non-invasive and drug-free. For individuals who want to avoid surgery or medications, shockwave therapy offers an effective, natural solution for managing heel pain and promoting healing.
What to Expect During a Shockwave Therapy Session for Heel Pain
If you’re considering shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis or heel pain, here’s what you can expect during a typical session:
1. Initial Consultation
Before starting shockwave therapy, you’ll have an initial consultation with a chiropractor or healthcare provider. During this visit, they’ll assess your condition, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination to determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.
2. Treatment Process
During the shockwave therapy session, you’ll lie down while a handheld device is used to apply acoustic waves to the affected area. The chiropractor will move the device around your heel to target the plantar fascia. While the treatment may feel slightly uncomfortable, it is typically tolerable and lasts about 10–15 minutes.
3. Post-Treatment
After the session, you may experience some mild soreness or discomfort in the treated area. This is normal and should subside within a few hours. Many patients begin to notice pain relief after just a few sessions, with more significant improvement as the treatment progresses.
4. Number of Sessions
Most individuals require between 3 to 5 sessions, spaced about a week apart. The exact number of sessions will depend on the severity of your condition and your response to treatment.
Chiropractic Care for Heel Pain
In addition to shockwave therapy, chiropractic care can provide valuable support for those dealing with heel pain. Chiropractors specialize in the alignment of the spine and musculoskeletal system, and they can help address issues contributing to heel pain.
1. Foot and Ankle Adjustments
Chiropractors can perform adjustments to the foot and ankle to improve alignment and relieve pressure on the plantar fascia. These adjustments help to ensure proper movement and reduce strain on the tissues in the feet, providing additional pain relief.
2. Exercise and Stretching Recommendations
Chiropractors often recommend specific exercises and stretches to improve flexibility and strength in the feet and lower legs. These exercises can help to reduce tension in the plantar fascia, promote healing, and prevent future injuries.
3. Posture and Biomechanics Evaluation
Chiropractors also evaluate posture and biomechanics to identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to heel pain. By improving posture and foot mechanics, chiropractors can help reduce the risk of recurring pain.
Finding Shockwave Therapy Near Me in San Diego, CA
For those in San Diego, CA, seeking relief from plantar fasciitis or heel pain, shockwave therapy is an excellent option. If you’re looking for a reliable chiropractor in San Diego, CA, Herfindahl Chiropractic offers shockwave therapy as part of their comprehensive approach to pain relief.
To learn more about how shockwave therapy can help manage heel pain and plantar fasciitis, visit their website and schedule an appointment today.
