SoftWave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis: What to Expect

Plantar fasciitis, a common condition characterized by pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, can be difficult to manage. When traditional treatments don’t help, we recommend trying SoftWave® before committing to surgery.

Traditional treatments for plantar fasciitis include rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. If those don’t help, we may recommend surgery.

SoftWave® therapy is a nonsurgical solution for plantar fasciitis that offers an effective alternative for those seeking relief from the stabbing heel pain that this common condition causes.

Our pain management physicians at NYC Pain MD in Manhattan and Astoria, Queens, in New York City, specialize in nonsurgical solutions for acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain, including plantar fasciitis.

Read more from our team about the benefits of SoftWave therapy for plantar fasciitis and what to expect during and after treatment.

Understanding SoftWave therapy

SoftWave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), is a noninvasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues.

During the therapy, acoustic waves penetrate the skin and underlying tissues, promoting healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in the targeted area. Based on regenerative medicine techniques, these actions help stimulate the body's natural tissue regeneration and repair.

The technology behind SoftWave therapy is similar to that used in lithotripsy, a medical procedure that breaks down kidney stones. But the waves used in SoftWave are less intense, making the treatment more suitable for musculoskeletal conditions like plantar fasciitis.

How SoftWave therapy works for plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.

When this tissue becomes inflamed or damaged, it can cause significant pain, particularly with your first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing or walking.

SoftWave therapy targets the affected area with focused acoustic waves. These waves create microtrauma in the tissues, triggering a healing response from the body.

The increased blood flow and cellular activity help reduce inflammation, break down scar tissue, and promote healthy tissue regeneration. Over time, this process can lead to a reduction in pain and improved function.

What to expect during and after the procedure

Before starting SoftWave therapy, our team at NYC Pain completes an evaluation, which includes an exam, a discussion of your symptoms and medical history, and possibly imaging studies to help confirm the cause of your pain.

A gel applied before treatment helps transmit the acoustic waves effectively via a handheld device that we apply to the targeted treatment area.

You may feel mild discomfort as the handheld moves over the painful region, but most patients tolerate the therapy quite well. Each session typically lasts about 15-20 minutes.

Mild soreness or swelling in the treated area can occur, typically lasting 2-3 days. Avoiding strenuous activities for a short period can speed healing.

Most individuals benefit from multiple SoftWave sessions, usually spaced a week apart. We create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Schedule a visit at NYC Pain MD for more information about ShockWave therapy and other treatments we offer for chronic pain. Call one of our offices or request an appointment online.