Two emerging technologies for Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciopathy

Abstract

Some common overuse injuries, such as Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis (or fasciopathy), can be refractory to treatment. When standard treatment options fail, operative intervention often becomes the treatment of last resort. Recently, newer technologies have been developed and refined, and can provide potential benefits for these conditions using noninvasive and minimally invasive approaches. Two technologies, extracorporeal shock wave therapy and ultrasound-guided percutaneous tenotomy/fasciotomy are discussed.

Keywords: Achilles tendinopathy; Extracorporeal shock wave therapy; Percutaneous fasciotomy; Percutaneous tenotomy; Plantar fasciitis.