Although you may never know you have a heel spur, many people experience a great deal of pain when they develop one. You may feel a dull throbbing or a sharp stabbing pain, especially when you take your first steps in the morning. By the end of the day, you may feel like you’re walking on broken glass.
Our skilled podiatrist at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates, Dr. Benjamin Weaver, understands that heel spurs are the body’s response to stress and strain placed on your foot ligaments and tendons. He also knows how painful they can be. At our Wichita podiatry practice, we've seen firsthand how SoftWave therapy, an innovative form of acoustic wave treatment, offers relief even for stubborn chronic heel pain. Here, Dr. Weaver explains how SoftWave targets heel spurs to help you get back on your feet.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a bony protrusion that develops on the underside of the heel bone, often due to repetitive strain on the foot muscles and ligaments. Obesity, poor-fitting shoes, gait problems, and certain exercises can all contribute to the formation of a heel spur.
Heel spurs that are symptomatic can cause patients a great deal of pain and discomfort. This pain occurs because the spur digs into the fatty pad of the heel, causing inflammation and erosion over time.
If you don’t treat a heel spur, it can cause damage to surrounding tissues. That’s why early intervention with Dr. Weaver is so important for helping to manage symptoms and prevent further degeneration. Dr. Benjamin Weaver may recommend SoftWave therapy to help treat your heel spur.
How SoftWave Therapy Targets Heel Spurs
SoftWave is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. When applied to the heel, these waves penetrate deep into the tissue to reach the bone and the ligaments that attach to it. At the cellular level, SoftWave has been shown to:
- Stimulate tissue regeneration. The acoustic waves trigger the production of new, healthy tissue to replace the damaged areas around the spur. This helps to cushion and protect the bone while reducing inflammation.
- Increase blood flow. SoftWave therapy enhances circulation in the treated area, bringing oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing. This improved blood flow also helps to flush out inflammatory mediators that contribute to pain.
- Break up calcifications. Over time, the repetitive acoustic pulses can help to break up the calcified deposits that form the heel spur. While the spur may not disappear completely, this process can help to reduce its size and make it less irritating to the surrounding tissues.
- Release trigger points. Heel pain is often accompanied by tightness and trigger points in the calf muscles and plantar fascia. SoftWave therapy can help to release these knots, allowing the muscles to relax and alleviating the pulling forces on the heel.
By addressing the root causes of heel spur pain, SoftWave therapy can help provide lasting relief and improve overall foot function. There is usually little downtime after your treatment.
SoftWave Treatment for Heel Spurs: What to Expect
If you and your podiatrist determine that SoftWave is right for your heel pain, here's what you can expect from the treatment process:
- Initial exam. Dr. Weaver will assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a physical exam to confirm the diagnosis of a heel spur. Diagnostic tests like X-rays or ultrasound may also be used to visualize the spur and guide treatment.
- Treatment. Most patients require a series of 3-5 SoftWave sessions, each spaced about a week apart. The exact number will depend on the severity of your condition and your individual response to treatment.
- During the procedure. Dr. Weaver will apply a gel to the treatment area and move the SoftWave applicator over your skin. Most patients feel a deep, tapping sensation as the acoustic waves are delivered. The entire process takes about 5-10 minutes per foot.
- After the procedure. You may experience some mild soreness or bruising in the treated area, but this typically resolves within a day or two. Your podiatrist may recommend temporary activity modifications or orthotic inserts to support your recovery.
Many patients report significant pain relief after just one or two SoftWave sessions, with continued improvement over the course of treatment. These results are often long-lasting, allowing you to return to the activities you love without constantly worrying about heel pain.
Talk to Us About SoftWave Therapy
At our Wichita foot care clinic, we understand how frustrating and debilitating chronic heel spur pain can be. That's why we're excited to offer our patients the latest in non-invasive treatment options like SoftWave therapy. If you've been suffering from persistent heel pain despite conservative treatments, it may be time to try a new approach.
During your consultation, Dr. Weaver may ask you about the following:
- The severity and duration of your heel pain
- Any previous treatments you've tried
- Your activity levels and lifestyle goals
- Any other medical conditions that may impact your treatment
Dr. Weaver will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include SoftWave therapy, orthotics, and stretching exercises to help you find relief. With the right approach and a commitment to your recovery, it’s possible to overcome heel spur pain and get back to the life you love. Don't let heel spurs keep you sidelined. Contact our Wichita podiatry practice today to schedule your SoftWave therapy consultation, and take the first step toward healing. Read our testimonials to see how we’ve treated other patients with SoftWave therapy.