Comparison of different energy densities of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for the management of chronic heel pain.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the effectiveness of different energy densities of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for managing chronic heel pain.


METHODS
A randomized clinical trial.


METHODS
Hospital-based practice.


METHODS
Fifty-seven patients with chronic heel pain were recruited; eight patients withdrew from the study.


METHODS
Subjects were randomized into three groups receiving: (1) a 'fixed' energy density, (2) 'maximum tolerable' energy density, or (3) control treatment once a week for three weeks.


METHODS
Pain on palpation, pain on tension, maximum tolerable walking/standing duration and Foot Function Index were assessed before treatment in each treatment session and at the three-week follow-up.


RESULTS
By week 3, the 'maximum tolerable' energy density group experienced a 66% cumulative reduction in pain from tension, a 65% reduction on palpation and a 112% cumulative increase in maximum tolerable walking/standing duration. The 'fixed' energy density group experienced a 45% cumulative reduction in pain from tension, a 32% reduction in pain on palpation, and a 45% increase in walking/standing tolerance. The 'maximum tolerable' energy density group also showed a significantly greater reduction in Foot Function Index scores than the other two groups. Therapeutic effects were maintained at least up to the three-week follow-up period. The control group had no significant changes in any outcome measures across time periods.


CONCLUSIONS
The delivery of ESWT with a maximum tolerable energy density is a more effective treatment protocol than a fixed energy density in terms of relieving pain and restoring the functional activity of people suffering from chronic heel pain. The analgesic effects were maintained at least up to the three-week follow-up.
Chow
Intonia H W
IH
Physiotherapy Department, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Cheing
Gladys L Y
GL
D002908:Chronic Disease; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006365:Heel / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010146:Pain / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010173:Palpation; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology