Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic Wave Therapy dates back to the 1940s. During World War II, depth charges were used to find and destroy enemy submarines. An acoustic wave, generated in the depths of the ocean, traveled through the water environment and destroyed the submarines without direct contact. This phenomenon, which is known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy, was then employed for the treatment of kidney stones. A patient was placed in a large vat of water and an electrical charge was applied to break up kidney stones.
In the early 1990s, this technology was adopted to soft tissue injuries such as tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis. It was expensive, painful, and noisy, but was a more favorable option than the previous open surgical procedures. This process of breaking up adhesions and activating the body’s own natural healing system was gradually refined to a smaller, less expensive, less painful modality.
Many providers in the Heel Pain Relief Center use the radial STORZ MEDICAL D-ACTOR® 200 applicator to tighten muscle and connective tissue by introducing high-energy acoustic waves into the foot in the form of high-frequency oscillations. The instrumentation used at the Heel Pain Relief Center is the latest development in this technology. It requires no anesthetic, has little or no discomfort, and is less expensive. The patient is ambulatory immediately and it generally takes three 10-minute sessions before the pain is resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this procedure work?
Acoustic waves cause high-frequency oscillations that tighten muscle and connective tissue.
How long does this procedure take?
The procedure is generally successful after three separate 10-minute sessions.
Is hospitalization necessary?
No.
What is a typical device used at a Heel Pain Relief Center?
Many providers in the Heel Pain Relief Center's network use the radial STORZ MEDICAL D-ACTOR® 200 applicator, the first high frequency pulse activation therapy system.