Achilles tendon bursitis can be a painful and frustrating condition, especially for athletes and active individuals. The inflammation of the bursa near the Achilles tendon can make walking, running, or even standing a challenge. If you're struggling with persistent heel pain, shockwave therapy may be the innovative solution you need to get back to your active lifestyle.
Understanding Achilles Tendon Bursitis
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, playing a crucial role in movement. Bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) near the tendon become inflamed due to overuse, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues. Common symptoms include:
Heel pain and tenderness
Swelling and warmth around the Achilles tendon
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
Traditional treatments, such as rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy, can help, but some cases require a more advanced approach—this is where shockwave therapy comes in.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area. The waves promote increased blood flow, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue regeneration. This therapy is particularly effective for chronic cases of Achilles tendon bursitis that have not responded well to other treatments.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendon Bursitis
Non-Invasive: No needles, no incisions—just targeted sound waves to stimulate healing.
Pain Reduction: Many patients experience a noticeable decrease in pain after just a few sessions.
Accelerated Healing: Shockwave therapy promotes collagen production and improved circulation, speeding up recovery.
Minimal Downtime: Unlike surgery, shockwave therapy allows you to continue with daily activities with minimal interruption.
Enhancing Recovery with Class 4 Laser Therapy
For even faster and more effective healing, shockwave therapy can be combined with Class 4 laser therapy. This advanced laser treatment uses high-powered light energy to penetrate deep into the tissues, further reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and stimulating cellular repair. When used alongside shockwave therapy, Class 4 laser therapy can:
Enhance Tissue Regeneration: The laser increases ATP production in cells, boosting energy for faster healing.
Reduce Pain and Swelling: The combination of shockwave and laser therapy provides superior pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
Improve Mobility: Patients experience greater flexibility and a quicker return to normal activities.
What to Expect During Treatment
During a session, a handheld device is used to deliver shockwaves to the affected area. The procedure takes about 15-20 minutes, and most patients require a series of 3-5 treatments for optimal results. Some mild discomfort may be felt during the session, but this typically subsides quickly. If Class 4 laser therapy is incorporated, an additional 5-10 minutes will be spent applying laser energy to further enhance healing.
Get Relief from Achilles Tendon Bursitis Today
If Achilles tendon bursitis is keeping you from the activities you love, it's time to explore shockwave therapy at Boulder Sports Chiropractic. Our team specializes in cutting-edge treatments to help you heal faster and move pain-free.
Don't let heel pain slow you down—book your shockwave and Class 4 laser therapy appointment today! Call us or schedule online to get started.