Shockwave Therapy

Exploring Non-Surgical Options for Chronic Foot and Heel Pain

Chronic foot or heel pain can significantly impact your daily mobility and quality of life. At Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons, we offer Shockwave Therapy as a non-invasive treatment option that may support your body’s natural healing process. This in-office procedure uses acoustic energy to help stimulate blood flow and tissue repair, and is commonly considered for conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinopathy. While individual results vary and not all patients may respond to treatment, shockwave therapy is often explored when more conservative methods have not provided sufficient relief.

Considering Non-Surgical Relief for Chronic Foot or Heel Pain?

Persistent foot and heel pain can interfere with daily life, from standing and walking to exercising and working. At Acacia Foot and Ankle Surgeons, we offer radial shockwave therapy as a non-surgical option to support tissue healing in select chronic conditions. This in-office treatment uses acoustic energy pulses to help stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and encourage tissue repair—without needles, anesthesia, or extended downtime.

Shockwave therapy may be considered for the following conditions:

• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)

• Achilles tendinopathy

• Peroneal tendinopathy

• Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

• Neuromas

• Chronic ankle pain

Most treatments last about 15 minutes, and many patients return to regular activities shortly after the procedure. While some individuals report symptom improvement within a few sessions, results vary, and not all patients will experience significant or lasting relief.

If conservative treatments haven’t helped and you’re exploring alternatives to surgery, shockwave therapy may be an option. For pricing details or to find out if you’re a candidate, please call us at 623.439.2200 or book a consultation online.

How Shockwave Therapy Works

Also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), this technique delivers targeted acoustic waves into damaged soft tissue. These waves create controlled microtrauma that may initiate the body’s natural healing response—potentially increasing circulation, reducing chronic inflammation, and promoting the breakdown of scar tissue or calcification that can limit mobility.

Unlike treatments aimed at masking pain, shockwave therapy targets underlying tissue changes that contribute to chronic discomfort. Most sessions are brief and do not require sedation or recovery time, making it a convenient option for patients with busy lifestyles.

Contraindications: Who Should Not Receive Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is safe for many people, but certain conditions may require caution or exclude its use altogether. This therapy may not be appropriate for individuals with:

• Pregnancy

• Bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulants

• Severe peripheral vascular disease

• Open wounds, infections, or ulcers at the treatment site

• Active cancer near the treatment area

• Neuropathy or conditions that impair sensation in the feet

• Implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers)

• Acute inflammation or significant swelling

During your consultation, we will review your medical history to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition.

Important Considerations

Although many patients benefit from shockwave therapy, outcomes are not guaranteed. Results vary depending on the severity of the condition, the individual’s response, and other health factors. In some cases—particularly where advanced tissue degeneration or biomechanical abnormalities are present—surgical intervention may still be necessary.

In addition, shockwave therapy is typically not covered by insurance and is considered an elective, out-of-pocket service. We are happy to discuss pricing and package options during your visit.