What is Ultrasonic Shock Wave Therapy?
Ultrasonic shock wave therapy for plantar fasciitis is a method of treatment that employs sound waves directed at the painful area in an attempt to stimulate healing. When treatments such as drugs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, corticosteroids), physical therapy or splinting fail to adequately work, ultrasonic shock wave therapy is typically used. However, one study has shown it to be a very ineffective method of treatment, while another says otherwise. Studies on the Ineffectiveness of Ultrasonic Shock Wave Therapy A study conducted in 2002 and detailed in the December 2002 issue of the Journal of Family Practice showed ultrasonic shock wave therapy to be a relatively ineffective method of treatment for plantar fasciitis. A randomized, placebo-controlled double-blind study was conducted with 166 Australian patients and assess six and twelve weeks after therapy was administered. The study showed that while pain did improve among both groups in the trial, the improvements
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