The Application of Shock Wave in the Therapy of Patients with Calcaneal Spur

Abstract

Introduction: Calcaneal spur is a common condition associated with pain in the foot area. The disease enables proper foot load which leads to pain in other areas of the osteoarticular system. Among the proposed methods of conservative treatment, shock wave therapy is applied. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of focussed shock wave therapy in patients with calcaneal spur. What is more, the impact of therapy on patients quality of life has been assessed. Material and Methods: The study included 25subjects treated in outpatient conditions at the Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital in Bialystok. To perform the procedures, a PiezoWave² byRichard Wolf Elevation Medical has been used. Patients underwent four shock wave procedures. Clinical assessment based on the physical and subjective examination has been conducted before and after the treatment. Pain has been assessed according to the VAS, Laitinen scale and the Foot Function Index has been used in order to measure pain, disability, activity limitation as well as Role and Maudsley scores. Results: After the application of shock wave procedures, pain relief assessed by VAS and Laitinenscale has been observed. Analysis of the effectiveness of therapy with Foot Function Index and the Role and Maudsley scale revealed significant improvements in examined subscales (pain, disability and limited activity). Conclusions: Focussed shock wave therapy reduces pain in patients with calcaneal spur. The proposed treatment improves the functional status of patients, contributing to the enhancement of their quality of life.