Upstate Orthopedics works hard to bring patients the most technologically advanced and minimally invasive treatment options for all types of orthopedic ailments. We are pleased to announce that Dr. Scott VanValkenburg, Foot & Ankle Surgeon, will be offering Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) as a new treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Shock wave therapy was originally used to treat kidney stones. Orthopedic uses for shock wave therapy have now been developed to treat soft tissue injuries and some bone conditions. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs along the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia, leading to heel pain that can become disabling if not addressed. Fortunately, this conditions can be treated conservatively without surgery.
ESWT benefits patients because their condition can be treated extracorporeally (outside the body). ESWT can also be used to treat many types of tendonitis in the foot/ankle, shoulder, elbow, and knee. At Upstate Orthopedics, Dr. VanValkenburg is using ESWT for plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Shock wave therapy involves no incisions and no down time. A special laser light is applied on the affected area, triggering a chain of responses internally that stimulate and increase the natural healing process. Patients can receive treatment in the office and return to work immediately, and be fully recovered in as little as 2 weeks. The internal healing process can take up to 6 weeks for some people.
Compared to surgical treatment, ESWT offers some significant advantages. Because the procedure is done outside the body with no need for an incision, the risks and expenses of surgery are eliminated. The primary complication associated with this non-surgical method is bruising, which is much better than surgical complications like infection and scar problems. You won’t even have a scar with shock wave therapy!
Thousands of ESWT procedures have been performed since 1999. Dr. VanValkenburg has completed the necessary training with the Excellence Shock Wave Therapy Group. Find out if you are a candidate for this cutting edge procedure – call us today for a consultation! (315) 464-4472.
Learn more about Dr. VanValkenburg and plantar fasciitis.