Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is a relatively new procedure used to treat a variety of conditions, including some causes of heel pain.  

It works by sending strong sound waves (much as may be done in the treatment of kidney stones) towards the area of pain, thereby stimulating healing of the painful tissues. 

ESWT is performed at private facilities, and is relatively expensive, and it is not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP), though some government agencies (WCB, ICBC, RCMP) and some extended plans may cover the cost.  It is usually done under local anaesthesia. 

It should not be done with certain conditions, however, such as those with heel pain caused from:

(For more information on any of the above conditions, please click on the word to visit our web page on that topic.) 

Potential complications include, pain, swelling, bruising, nerve irritation, disruption of the circulation, and rupture of the soft tissues attaching to the heel.