Shockwave Therapy

Focused Shockwave Therapy for Foot & Ankle Pain

Focused Shockwave Therapy is an advanced, FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment designed to relieve pain and stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This innovative technology delivers high-energy sound waves directly to injured tissue, promoting increased blood flow, tissue regeneration, and accelerated healing. Rather than masking symptoms with steroids or medication, Focused Shockwave Therapy repairs the root cause of pain and dysfunction. It can serve as an alternative to weeks of physical therapy, unplesant injections, and even surgery. Focused Shockwave Therapy is a safe and effective option that improves mobility, reduces pain, and enhances overall quality of life—with minimal risks or side effects.

Focused Shockwave is not to be confused with Radial Shockwave, which is NOT a true shockwave and a much less powerful treatment.  We have removed Radial shockwave from our office entirely and upgraded to Focused for these reasons. In fact, Lincoln Park Podiatry is 1 of few clinic in Chicago that has a true Focused Shockwave machine. 

What is the difference between Radial and Focused Shockwave?

Radial shockwaves disperse outward from the applicator, delivering energy over a broader, more superficial area.

Depth of penetration:

• Shallow (typically up to 3–4 cm)

• Energy decreases as it travels deeper than the skin

Limitations:

• Less precise

• Not ideal for deep or chronic injuries

• Limited effectiveness for severe degeneration or bone-related conditions

• Weekly sessions for 6+ weeks, more time consuming

Focused shockwave converges at a specific depth and location, delivering high-energy waves directly to the injured tissue.

Depth of penetration:

• Adjustable and much deeper (up to 12 cm)

• Energy remains constant and concentrated at the target site

Advantages over Radial:

• Treats the root cause, not just symptoms

• Stimulates tissue regeneration and neovascularization

• FDA-cleared for specific musculoskeletal indications

• Stronger, more targeted treatments

• Typically fewer sessions needed 

When to Consider Focused Shockwave Therapy

This treatment may be right for you if:

• Conservative treatments haven’t worked
  You’ve tried rest, ice, physical therapy, orthotics, or other traditional treatments without lasting relief.

• You have chronic pain or limited mobility
  Ongoing foot or ankle pain can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

• You want to avoid surgery or injections
  Focused Shockwave Therapy offers an effective, non-invasive alternative.

• You’re looking for faster recovery
  The therapy stimulates natural healing, often leading to quicker recovery compared to traditional methods.

WHAT DISORDERS CAN BE TREATED?

Generally, acute or chronic muscle pain and/or tendon pain in neck, shoulder, elbow, back, foot and ankle. The most common conditions treated in the foot and ankle are plantar fasciitis/ heel pain, any type of tendonitis, muscle pain,  bone tenderness, and nerve pain.

WHAT ARE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS/COMPLICATIONS?

Non-invasive shockwave treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases, patients may experience some minor discomfort which may continue for a few days. It is normal to have some residual pain after intense exercise or a full-day of work.

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED RESULTS?

The full beneficial effects of Shockwave therapy are often experienced after 3-5 treatments. However, most patients treated report to be pain-free and/or have significant pain reduction after the first treatment! Long term the procedure can eliminate pain and restores full mobility, thus improving your quality of life. There is  data shows it is up to 84% effective in treating soft tissue disorders.

IS IT SAFE?

Yes! This FDA approved technology was developed in Europe and is currently used around the globe. A wealth of medical experience, state-of-the-art engineering, and optimal quality have been built into each shockwave device, and extensive clinical studies and test have confirmed its safety and efficacy. If performed by a qualified caregiver shockwave has virtually no risks or side effects.

HOW IS THE TREATMENT PERFORMED?

Coupling gel is applied to the treatment area of interest to enhance effectiveness. After these preparations, focused waves are released via the applicator moved over the area of interest in a circular motion.  Treatments are once weekly for 3-5 sessions.

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE TREATMENT AND HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Treatment sessions take approximately 5 minutes depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, 3-5 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER THE TREATMENT/PROCEDURE?

Nothing! There is NO recovery period

WHY CONSIDER NON-INVASIVE Focused Shockwave?

Focused Shockwave has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods (sometimes including surgery) and without the risks, complications and lengthy recovery time. Focused Shockwave is performed in your doctor's office, does not require anesthesia, requires a minimal amount of time, patients can walk immediately afterwards, and return to normal activity on the day of the treatment.

BENEFITS OF NON-INVASIVE Focused Shockwave

• FDA approved
• Patients are immediately fully weight bearing.
• Patients can return to work/normal activities on the same day as the procedure.
• Non-Surgical
• No incisions – No risk of infection at the treatment site – No scar tissue formation.
• Cost Effective, compared to surgery and multiple sessions of Physical Therapy
• Non-invasive so biomechanics are not affected – future treatment options are not limited.
• Reduced conservative care – ends the cycle – Reduced aftercare and complications costs.
• Bilateral (both feet) can be treated at the same time.
• Reduced cost from lost work.
• Fast, safe, and effective.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

In the past, procedures similar to the Focused Shockwave cost thousands of dollars when performed in the operating room due to facility requirements (size of the machine) and the need for an anesthesiologist. Today, this technology is available at a fraction of this cost and can be performed in the office without the need for local or general anesthesia.  While it is not covered by insurance directly, FSA and HSA funds can be used for the treatments. It often cost much less than going to physical therapy, twice a week for 6 weeks.