Shockwave Therapy

Well Heeled Podiatry offers shockwave therapy for heel pain, Achilles Tendon injuries, and other chronic injuries of the foot and ankle.

Our machine is clinically proven to reduce chronic heel pain in 70-80% of cases!

Radial shockwave therapy uses high-pressure acoustic frequencies that pass through the targeted tissue to initiate repair and healing. Stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms.

• Stimulates fibroblast activity (collagen production) – healing connective tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and fascia.
• Stimulates osteoblast (bone cell) production – healing bone.
• Reduces substance P within the tissues for pain relief.
• Inhibits Cox II Enzyme, causing an anti-inflammatory effect.
• Increasing circulation to the effected area.
• Breaks down hardened deposits and scar tissue formation.

Radial shockwave treatments are safe and non-invasive. There are no electrical shocks, as the name may suggest!

• The exact location of your pain is palpated a contact gel is applied to the area.
• A hand held probe is applied to the skin delivering acoustic pressure waves in a controlled and focused manner.
• Typically 5-10 minutes of shockwave is delivered, per injured area.
• A course of shockwave therapy usually consists of weekly treatments for 3-6 weeks, depending on injury severity.

Shockwave:                                                Cortisone:

No side effects                                                Infection risk, due to injection piercing skin

Topical with no harsh chemicals                Harsh chemical injected into the body

Will NOT weaken tissue over time             Prolonged/ regular use will weaken tissue

Shockwave is a research-proven therapy effective in treating many chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Especially those where previous conservative treatment has not been enough to resolve notoriously stubborn complaints. These can include but is not limited to the following;

• Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain/ Heel Spurs)
• Achilles Tendinopathy
• Shin Splints
• Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy
• Peroneal Tendinopathy (Lateral Foot Pain)
• Ankle Ligament Injuries
• Osteoarthritis
• Foot Fractures
• Capsulitis
• Morton’s Neuroma

• Pregnancy
• Blood clotting disorder (including thrombosis)
• Prescribed anti-coagulant medication
• Steroid injection administered within the specific area within 6 weeks prior to treatment
• Cancer treatment
• Skin Infection or wounds at the treatment site
• If you are Under 18 (except in the treatment of Osgood-Schlatter disease)

After very careful research and comparisons of shockwave machines, Well Heeled Podiatry chose the DolorClast EMS shockwave machine.

We wanted to ensure if our patients are paying for a service that they are receiving the best, evidence-based treatment.

With the DolorClast shockwave machine, we strongly feel that there is no better quality radial shock wave treatment on the market.

Here are few reasons why;

• DoloClast was the original inventor of radial shockwave therapy and continue to improve the quality treatments their machines deliver.
• Clinical proven results with over 30/45 independent randomised control trials listed in the PEDro database on radial shockwave, performed using DolorClast machines.
• In 80% of the clinical studies the DoloClast shockwave therapy had better clinical outcomes than the control group, for chronic injury.
• With over 10,000 machines used world wide. It is the chosen machine by La Trobe University , AFL clubs and highly regarded sports physicians.
• Swiss designed and manufacture, using the highest quality materials and workmanship.
• The Swiss DolorClast Classic has FDA approval as a “Generator, Shockwave, For Pain Relief” device, Class III. It is the only shockwave radial device, with FDA approval. All other shockwave therapy machines have registered their radial devices with the FDA as Electric Therapeutic Massages (Class I).

 To learn more about Shock Wave Therapy watch this short video.

Will it Hurt?

Shockwave will feel uncomfortable when first applied. However, due to its analgesic effects, this will ease off during your treatment. The podiatrist will slowly turn up the settings based on your tolerance levels and can be stopped at any time. Care is taken to ensure you feel safe and in control with the level of intensity applied.

When Can I Expect Results?

Radial Shockwave immediately reduces substance P in the tissues, which causes pain. Therefore the majority of patients experience pain reduction and a greater range of movement immediately after the procedure.

Long-term tissue healing generally begins after a few days. Depending on your condition, healing may continue for weeks to months.

Can I Use It On An Acute Injury?

Shockwave has been shown to be more effective in chronic injuries or tissues. However, when we sustain an acute injury the muscles surrounding the injury can spasm to protect the area and can be detrimental to recovery. This is where shockwave can be used to loosen the surrounding tissue but is not generally placed directly on the area of injury.

How Frequently Can I Have Shockwave Treatment?

The minimum time between treatment is 3 days and the maximum is 7 days for optimum results. Depending on your presenting condition our podiatrist will discuss the best treatment plan for you.

Will My Private Health Cover Shockwave?

If you have podiatry cover you can claim the treatment through your private health. We offer on-the-spot claiming and can process your rebate on the day. Please note all private health plans differ and cover is between you and your health fund.

Will the Department of Veteran Affairs, NDIS, or Other Third Parties Cover Shockwave.

Yes, DVA and NDIS will cover shockwave therapy if clinically indicated in your care. Sometimes prior approval is necessary for other third-party rebates and can be discussed and organised with our podiatrist during your consultation.

Why Can Shockwave Treatment Plans Differ for Different Machines

Other substandard shockwave device machines may suggest 6-10 weekly treatments at 8,000- 10,000 pulses per treatment. This still won’t provide the same physiological change that 3 consecutive weekly treatments at approx. 2,500 pulses will provide with the DoloClast EMS protocol studies.

If you would like to know any further information about shockwave therapy please get in contact. We are more than happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.