CuraMedix Blog

Foot and ankle specialists treat a broad spectrum of conditions, and those seeking advanced and effective solutions are increasingly turning to shockwave therapy devices. This innovative and non-invasive technology harnesses the power of acoustic waves to ignite healing, offering medical practices an impressive alternative to invasive surgery or corticosteroid injections.

As the demand for shockwave therapy increases, choosing the "right" device becomes paramount. In this guide, we delve into the essential features to help foot and ankle specialists in the market for shockwave devices to make the most informed purchasing decisions. Discover critical insights that make shockwave therapy a valuable addition to your plan of care and explore best practices for seamless implementation in your practice.

What is Shockwave Therapy? 

Shockwave therapy, otherwise known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment modality that utilizes acoustic waves to accelerate healing in various musculoskeletal conditions, tendinopathies, and soft tissues. Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. The treatment involves delivering high-energy shockwaves to the affected area, thus influencing a cascade of biological effects, including promoting blood flow, tissue regeneration, and reducing inflammation. 

The Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Foot and Ankle Specialists

It is no wonder that foot and ankle specialists are excited by the potential of this beneficial approach as it offers a conservative means to eliminate or reduce the need for surgery, with groundbreaking advantages like faster recovery, remediation of pain, taming inflammation, and improved functionality for their patients.

Examine this expansive list of benefits of treating with shockwave: 

• Non-invasive Treatment: Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive approach, eliminating the need for surgical procedures and reducing associated risks.

• Flexible Modality: Shockwave therapy is versatile and efficacious in treating troublesome foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal issues.

• Outpatient Procedure: The treatment is performed comfortably in the office on an outpatient basis; this offers tremendous convenience for patients who can return home shortly after the session ends.

• Accelerates Healing Timelines: Shockwave therapy stimulates blood flow and facilitates tissue regeneration, thus awakening the natural healing process to repair damaged or inflamed foot structures. This gets patients back in motion sooner rather than later.
  
  
• Minimal to NO Downtime: Patients receiving shockwave treatment for foot and ankle care experience little to no downtime compared to traditional surgical interventions; this allows for a quick return to daily activities.
  
  
• Pain Relief: Patients experience an analgesic effect and tremendous pain relief from shockwave therapy.
  
  
• Tackles Inflammation: Shockwave therapy is hailed for regulating the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. It helps reduce inflammation and improves the overall function of the foot/ankle.
  
  
• Conservative Alternative: It serves as a conservative alternative to surgery and needles, offering foot and ankle specialists and patients a less invasive option with scientifically proven benefits.
  
  
• No Anesthesia or Scarring: ESWT/EPAT is commonly administered without the need for anesthesia; thus, it leaves no scarring, enhancing its appeal for practitioners and patients. 
  
  
• Improved Functionality: Patients can expect overall improved foot and ankle functionality after undergoing shockwave therapy and experience enhanced mobility and improved quality of life as a result.

Be sure to explore this article as well to learn more about Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis.

What Foot and Ankle Specialists Need to Know When Researching Shockwave Devices

When considering shockwave therapy devices, foot and ankle specialists may need to consider specific requirements and challenges influenced by patient demographics, treatment types, and space constraints within their practices. 

Foot and ankle conditions impact diverse patient populations and medical professionals require that devices be adaptable to varying foot and ankle conditions, allowing for a nuanced approach to treatment. Add to that the need for shockwave devices with parameters that can be modified and adjusted to address the treatment of various foot and ankle conditions to produce optimal outcomes.

Furthermore, should space limitations exist within the practice layout, there is a need for devices suitable for the space and size of the treatment rooms. This is an essential consideration as it ensures that shockwave devices can be strategically and seamlessly integrated into clinical settings without compromising functionality. 

Balancing all critical factors is instrumental for foot and ankle specialists aiming to provide the most effective and custom-fit shockwave therapy environment while simultaneously optimizing their practice's efficiency.

Key Shockwave Device Features to Consider

When selecting "the right" shockwave therapy device, foot and ankle specialists should ponder distinctive features to ascertain optimal performance and the ideal match for their practice. Here is an extensive list of essential features to contemplate:

• Intensity Levels:

  • Intensity levels that can be easily adjusted to cater to individual patient needs.

  • Customizable intensity levels allow for flexible treatment based on the severity of the diagnosed foot dysfunction.

• Frequency Options:

  • A device with a multitude of frequency options will accommodate a variety of foot conditions.

  • This range of settings conveniently allows for flexibility in treatment planning.

• Applicator Tips:

  • The availability of multiple applicator tips is needed to address different foot and ankle structures and dysfunctions.

  • Interchangeable applicators facilitate targeted therapy suited for specific areas.

• Treatment Depth Control:

  • Leverage depth control to target affected tissues precisely.

  • Depth control options are instrumental in addressing conditions at various tissue levels.

• Pulse Modes:

  • Differing pulse modes offer versatility in podiatrist treatment approaches.

  • Pulse modes /and/or continuous waves offer greater variety in shockwave therapy.

•  User Friendly Interface:

  • The interface is intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring ease of use and seamless treatment.

  • Touchscreen controls or easy-to-navigate menus enable a streamlined process for shockwave therapy.

• Integrated Cooling System:

  • Advanced technology, including an integrated cooling system, prevents overheating during prolonged use.

  • Systematic cooling mechanisms are designed to enhance patient comfort and safety.

• Treatment Protocols:

  • Leverage the convenience of pre-programmed treatment protocols for common podiatric conditions or customize as you see fit to suit individual patient needs.

•  Reliability and Durability:

  • Sturdy shockwave device construction for reliability over time.

  • Trustworthy performance to deliver consistent results.

•  Safety Features:

  • Reliable safety mechanisms include automatic shut-off to support device longevity.

  • Adherence to the highest standards of industry safety and regulations.

•  Maintenance Simplicity:

  • Easy maintenance achieves device longevity.

  • Access replacement parts and reliable customer support.

•  Patient and Practitioner Comfort:

  • Ergonomically designed applicators eliminate practitioner fatigue in handling devices and enhance patient comfort during treatment.

  • Flexibility and adjustable settings to cater to individual pain tolerances.

•  Training and Support:

  • Access to comprehensive training materials and resources is a top priority as it eases integration into the provider's practice and approach to care.

  • Ongoing support from the chosen manufacturer from initial inquiry, throughout the buying process, and once integrated into practice. This will allow the provider to garner dependable assistance for technical issues or questions.

•  Cost-Effectiveness:

  • Consider overall cost, including initial purchase price, maintenance, and conceivable upgrades.

Be sure to evaluate the machine's long-term value for your practice. Calculate projected ROI for adding a new revenue stream and flow of patients to your existing practice.

A thorough and complete evaluation equips foot and ankle specialists to make the most informed decisions when choosing a shockwave therapy device and vendor partner that aligns with the specific needs of their practice, patient demographics, and anticipated new patients.

Why Choose STORZ Medical for Your Shockwave Device

When the time arises to invest in a shockwave therapy machine, STORZ Medical takes center stage as a trusted choice. Among foot and ankle specialists around the globe, STORZ Medical is hailed as the undisputed market leader in shockwave and regenerative technologies, setting the gold standard in this exciting field.

Dive into our feature article, "Why Choose STORZ Medical for Your Practice's Shockwave Devices?" for a thorough understanding of what makes STORZ Medical the best choice in this competitive space. 

The Best Shockwave Therapy Devices for Foot and Ankle Specialists 

With its progressive technological advancements, ESWT and EPAT are revolutionizing opportunities to elevate patient care in foot and ankle care. Take a look at top shockwave device selections for those looking to become the go-to shockwave therapy podiatrist in the region, offering regenerative treatment options that sidestep the need for surgical intervention.

OrthoPulse Ultra 200

This superior device, also known as the D-ACTOR 200 Ultra and MASTERPULS^(R) MP200, provides enviable performance, functionality, and a trusted means for addressing both acute and chronic plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal or soft tissue tendinopathy and pain. Achilles tendinopathy, another common condition, benefits significantly from treatment with radial pressure waves.

OrthoPulse Ultra 100

This industry-leading radial pressure wave (EPAT®) device, otherwise known as the D-ACTOR 100 ULTRA and MASTERPULS^® MP100, provides a blend of innovation and performance, delivering unparalleled clinical and economic value in tackling acute and chronic plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal. and soft tissue tendinopathies. It's highly effective in treating foot and lower limb pain.

OrthoPulse Ultra 50

The OrthoPulse Ultra 50 is also known as the D-ACTOR 50 Ultra and MASTERPULS® MP50. It is a compact advanced radial pressure wave (EPAT®) device used to treat acute and chronic plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and generalized foot pain.

DUOLITH® SD1 T-TOP Ultra

The DUOLITH® SD1 T-TOP Ultra, an industry-leading focused shockwave (ESWT) device, is for the non-invasive treatment of various foot and ankle conditions. The ergonomically designed SEPIA handpiece marks a new era in focused shockwave. Allowing for spectacular flexibility in the realm of patient treatment. It's an optimal solution for addressing chronic and recalcitrant heel pain. Additionally, medical professionals are using ESWT to successfully treat pain associated with chronic proximal plantar fasciitis as well as other acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain associated with foot and ankle conditions.

DUOLITH® SD1 Ultra Modular System

DUOLITH® SD1 Ultra Modular System is a veritable tower of power that features three remarkable technologies in one modular system. With the device, physicians can harness the power to customize and combine radial pressure wave (EPAT®), focused shockwave (ESWT), complementary vibration, and vacuum therapies, and the option to integrate diagnostic ultrasound imaging. With this super-powered device, physicians can address unrelenting plantar proximal fasciitis and an array of acute and chronic foot and ankle conditions.

EPAT and ESWT are trusted non-invasive, regenerative shockwave and EMTT devices from CuraMedix that work independently, in tandem with one another, and as a complement to biologics, increasing the efficacy of clinical procedures.

Don't Just Buy a Device from Anyone

Perhaps, most notably, CuraMedix EPAT and ESWT devices powered by STORZ Medical are backed by evidence-based clinical studies, whereas similar competing technologies cannot make that claim.

Embark on a transformative journey with CuraMedix, the leading US distributor of STORZ Medical shockwave and EMTT devices. Our commitment goes well beyond distribution alone; we prioritize your success and provide exceptional support. 

• Join forces for customer-centered collaboration.
• Expect incomparable service and steadfast support.
• Know that your satisfaction is our priority.
• Partner with us to foster your practice's growth.

Our commitment to long-term value is evident in its emphasis on durability, reliability, and ongoing support, which enhances your practice and the well-being of your patients.

Tips for Getting Started with Shockwave

Explore best practices that support successful shockwave integration:

• Consider the diverse foot and ankle ailments in your patient population to choose a shockwave therapy device with the most versatile features.
• Choose CuraMedix to become a trusted shockwave therapy foot and ankle specialist and reap the rewards of partnering with a distributor emphasizing maintenance, training, and reliable customer support for a seamless experience.
• Discover the keys to optimizing shockwave therapy for foot and ankle specialists by exploring our article on Plantar Fasciitis

Adding shockwave therapy to your continuum of care offers non-invasive, versatile, and efficient solutions for numerous problematic foot and ankle conditions. In the final analysis, equip your practice for success when choosing a device by prioritizing features, maintenance, pre-and post-sales support, industry reputation, and peer testimonials. CuraMedix stands out as a critical differentiator, emphasizing reliability, safety, and a renowned level of ongoing assistance. By carefully investigating and integrating these aspects, foot and ankle specialists can level up patient care and improve practice efficiency resulting in increased ROI. 

Explore our article for foot and ankle specialists for more insights to leverage for your practice.

Contact us to connect with a shockwave expert at CuraMedix.