Abstract: ObjectiveTo observe the effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on managing heel pain. Methods22 patients were divided into 2 groups,12 cases in treatment group who accepted ESWT, 10 cases in control group.The intensity of morning pain on weight bearing, pain triggered by prolonged walking/standing, pain on tension and palpation tests were assessed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) before and after each treatment session, including the follow-up session,3 weeks after treatment. In addition, Mayo Clinical Scoring System (MCSS) was used to evaluate the treatment outcomes. ResultsAfter 3 weeks of treatment and 3 weeks' follow-up, the intensity of pain on tension test(P<0.05)as well as that on palpation test (P<0.01)decreased, the maximum duration of prolonged walking or standing (P<0.05)and MCSS scores (P<0.05)improved. Conclusions ESWT seems to be a more effective treatment modality for managing heel pain.

Key words: extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), heel pain