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Monday, June 13, 2011

WHAT IS RADIAL SHOCKWAVE THERAPY?

Radial Shock Wave Therapy is a fast, gentle, non-surgical method of reducing heel pain. Our method delivers pressure waves that travel through the skin. As these pressure waves come in contact with the inflamed tissue, they stimulate the body's natural self-healing process. This treatment is safe and effective and has been evaluated by the FDA with randomized, controlled, double-blinded scientific studies.


Check out the video below to see how the Radial Shock Wave Therapy works.





Who benefits from this treatment?


It is especially beneficial for patients that have chronic heel pain and have not had much success with traditional therapies such as medications, arch supports, orthotics, steroid injections, or stretching.

Can anyone receive this treatment?


The podiatrist will determine if you are a candidate for Radial Shock Wave Therapy. It is not recommended for treatment of heel pain in children, pregnant women, or people currently taking medications that inhibit blood clotting.

What is involved in the treatment?


The procedure is performed in the office. After an evaluation of your medical history and a physical evaluation, the point or area of maximum pain will be located and marked. Ultrasonic gel is applied to the foot. The RSWT handpiece is then positioned to gently and extensively transmit pressure waves over the injured area. The feedback you provide helps to determine the fine tuning of the impulse energy. Once you are comfortable at a low level, the energy is gradually increased over several minutes.



Are there any side effects of RWST?


There are virtually no side effects with RSWT since no medication, surgery, injections, or anesthesia is involved. Some patients may experience a short period of slight tingling, warmth, or numbness immediately after the treatment.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

SHIN SPLINTS

Many athletes get shin splints -- also called tibial stress syndrome -- at one time or another. Whether you jog daily or just had to sprint to catch a bus one day, you may have shin splints when you feel throbbing and aching in your shins. While they often heal on their own, severe shin splints can ruin your game. 


Shin splints might be caused by:

  • Irritated and swollen muscles, often caused by overuse.
  • Stress fractures, which are tiny, hairline breaks in the lower leg bones.
  • Overpronation or ''flat feet" -- when the impact of a step causes the arch of your foot to collapse, stretching the muscles and tendons.
Shin splints are very common. They're the cause of 13% of all running injuries. Runners might get them after ramping up their workout intensity, or changing the surface they run on -- like shifting from a dirt path to asphalt. Shin splints are also common in dancers.


Although shin splints may be caused by different problems, treatment is usually the same: Rest your body so the underlying issue heals. Here are some other things to try:
  • Icing the shin to reduce pain and swelling. Do it for 20-30 minutes every three to four hours for two to three days, or until the pain is gone.
  • Anti-inflammatory painkillers. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofennaproxen, or aspirin, will help with pain and swelling. However, these drugs can have side effects, like an increased risk of bleeding and ulcers. They should be used only occasionally unless your doctor specifically says otherwise.
  • Arch supports for your shoes. These orthotics -- which can be custom-made or bought off the shelf -- may help with flat feet.
  • Range of motion exercises, if your doctor recommends them.
  • Neoprene sleeve to support and warm the leg.
  • Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in your shins.