Radial Pulse Therapy (RPT) also known as, extracoporeal shock wave therapy, is a non-surgical treatment for foot pain. If you suffer from heel pain because of plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, or other conditions, RPT could be an option. Our experienced St. John's County sports medicine specialists understand that you have questions about your treatment, and we want you to have all of the information you need.
Seven Things to Know About RPT Treatment for Heel Pain
Below, we will answer some of the commonly asked questions we hear about using RPT to treat heel pain:
1. Does Radial Pulse Therapy Involve Medication or Surgery?
No, radial pulse therapy does not involve medication or surgery. Radial pulse therapy is a form of regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine uses advanced technologies to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and restore function to damaged tissues. The goal of regenerative medicine is to enable the body to heal itself by harnessing the power of its own cells and tissues.
2. How Does RPT Work?
Radial Pulse Therapy is a non-invasive therapeutic treatment that uses low-pressure radial waves to penetrate deep into the tissue and stimulate the body's natural healing process. The radial waves help to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve circulation in the target area. This increased blood flow ensures that oxygen is delivered to the body, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort.
3. Are There Any Side Effects From RPT?
RPT does not involve medication or surgery. Therefore, you don't have the risk of adverse drug reactions, infection, anesthesia complications, or the other risks that come with traditional heel pain treatments.
Many people do not experience RPT side effects. However, you could experience a slight tingling, warmth, or numbness for a short time. You will likely be able to go about your regular daily activities as soon as you leave our office.
4. Is RPT FDA Approved?
Yes. Radial Pulse therapy is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
5. What Should I Expect at My RPT Appointment?
RPT treatments are performed in the comfort of our Nocatee podiatry office. After conducting a physical examination, your doctor will mark the point of your pain. A small machine will deliver waves to the affected tissue without penetrating your skin. The entire procedure will take approximately 8 to 10 minutes. You may require multiple treatment sessions, with gradual healing and less pain after each treatment.
Your North Florida Foot and Ankle Center podiatrist will explain what to expect before you begin treatment so that you know what to expect when treatment begins and ends.
6. Is RPT the Right Treatment Option for My Heel Pain?
Our podiatrists want you to have the proper treatment for your heel pain. We offer several advanced technologies and will review all the benefits and costs of all options with you. RPT may be the proper treatment for you, or another treatment may better serve your needs. RPT may be helpful if you suffer from a heel condition, such as:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Other conditions that cause significant heel pain
Your medical condition and treatment goals are unique, and we will recommend the best possible treatment to relieve your pain so that you can get back to the activities you enjoy as soon as possible.
RPT may be used with other conservative treatment options, such as custom orthotics, to treat your heel pain.
7. Will I Be Able to Play Sports, Run, or Exercise After RPT?
Yes, the goal is to get you back to all of the activities that you enjoy, including but not limited to running, dancing, exercising, and participating in recreational or competitive sports. Your podiatrist will discuss your prognosis with you and when it may be safe to return to the activities you enjoy.
Have More Questions About RPT? Contact a Ponte Vedra Sports Medicine Specialist
We understand that you want to make the right decision to treat your heel pain. You want to heal so you can return to your regular activities as quickly as possible. Other factors, such as cost and convenience, also matter. Our experienced sports medicine specialists are here to discuss all of these factors with you.
Please contact our experienced St. John's County sports medicine specialists today to schedule your first consultation. We are happy to answer all your questions and provide you with all your treatment options. You can reach us online by completing our contact form or calling us at 904-236-5023 to schedule your appointment.