Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT, as it is commonly referred to, is a non-invasive, non-surgical option for the treatment of intense and relentless heel pain associated with the chronic condition known as Plantar Fasciitis.

The Plantar Fascia is a strong ligament structure (tensile strength of 4000 lb/sq. inch) that helps to maintain the structure and arch of the foot. It extends from the base of the toes to the heel bone or calcaneus bone.

The Plantar Fascia is almost as wide as the foot and plays an important role in the support of the foot.

Plantar Fasciitis is the condition caused by overuse or injury. When the Plantar Fascia is strained due to overuse, improper shoes, or poor foot structure it gets irritated and tender. The resulting inflammation causes the symptoms of pain that include: a burning sensation on the sole of the foot, and recurring foot pain especially after getting out of bed in the morning or sitting.

Plantar Fasciitis is clinically diagnosed by a physician, based on patient history and examination.

Research in ESWT that began in the 1980's has evolved into a treatment best suited for heel pain sufferers who have been unsuccessful in managing pain through the use of stretching, icing, orthotics, cortisone injections and conventional over-the-counter pain relievers. ESWT using the DolorClast^® Method offers a high rate of success.

The treatment releases high intensity sound waves in the tissue being treated around the fascia nerve, near the heel. The chronic inflammation that was causing the pain becomes an acute inflammation and the body responds by increasing circulation and cellular metabolism around the affected soft tissue.

ESWT instigates the body's own healing processes, by treating the source of the pain. ESWT using the Swiss DolorClast^® Method, does more than mask the pain, it offers a successful, long term solution in eliminating the pain.