Shock wave therapy was originally developed to break up kidney stones in the body. The therapy was approved by the FDA in the early 1980's and today is the standard treatment of choice for urinary stones.
An important benefit of this therapy is that it's delivered outside the body (extracorporeally), so many of the risks associated with surgery are eliminated. The shock waves actually stimulate or trigger your body's own repair mechanisms. Doctors around the world, especially in Europe, have successfully used this same shock wave technology since the early 1990's.
What is the Epos Ultra?
The Dornier Epos Ultra is a new shock wave therapy system designed specifically for orthopedic use. The system consists of three main parts:
Shock Wave Therapy System - this system produces the actual shock waves (also known as pressure or sound waves), which travel through the therapy head's water-filled cushion. This cushion is placed against your foot during treatment.
Articulated Arm - the therapy head is attached to the end of this arm-like device on the system. The arm is easily moved, so that the therapy head can be closely aligned to the area of your foot being treated.
Ultrasound Imaging System - much like an X-ray, the ultrasound imaging system is used by some healthcare providers to actually see inside your foot. A live picture of your foot will show on a T.V. - like screen, so the doctor can pinpoint the treatment site and closely watch what's going on before, during and after your treatment. Your feedback, relative to the exact location of the pain, is important too.
What Happens During Treatment?
The entire treatment takes approximately a half hour. Before therapy begins, you'll be asked to identify the area of your foot with the most pain, which the physician will note. An ultrasound image of your foot will probably be taken as well. The area of your foot will then be numbed, and you'll be asked to lie or sit down on an exam table or chair. A gel will then be applied to both your foot and the therapy head.
The therapy head (which hoses the shock wave source) will then be placed against your foot. Using a hand-held monitor, your doctor will release the shock waves with the push of a button on a control panel.
What Are the Benefits and Risk Involved?
Based on worldwide medical experience, extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a safe and effective alternative to the traditional treatment methods available. Shock wave therapy relieves pain and provides a short recovery period. This therapy may eliminate the need for surgery altogether, which is often expensive and could cause other health problems.
There are very few side effects or risks involved with shock wave therapy. The most common patient complaint during therapy is some pain or discomfort during and after treatment. Other side effects may include minor skin bruising and/or reddening, as well as swelling for a brief period of time.
Is this Therapy Right for Everyone?
You're encouraged to discuss with your physician any reason(s) why you shouldn't undergo shock wave treatment. The Epos Ultra has not been used to treat people with the following:
Conditions other than plantar fasciitis that could be possible causes of heel pain
A patient with a history of active heart disease
An infection in the area to be treated
A history of current or recent therapy that compromises tissue healing
Pregnant
Problems with circulation or bleeding
Diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage due to diabetes)
Diseases or disorders of the nerve
Diseases or disorders of bone structure
A heel or ankle fracture
Significant disease of blood vessels
Rheumatoid arthritis (pain, stiffness, swelling of the joints)
