Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis: what equipment buyers should know

What the manufacturer lists

LiKAMED describes the LiKAWAVE VARIO 3i as a wide-focus extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) device used in physiotherapy, orthopaedic and sports clinics, and lists plantar fasciitis and heel spur among its uses, alongside tendinopathies, calcific shoulder, tennis elbow and chronic muscle pain. These are the manufacturer's listed applications. Whether ESWT is suitable for a particular patient is a decision for a doctor or physiotherapist.

Independent guidance

Clinical bodies publish their own assessments of ESWT. For example, NICE (UK) has published guidance titled Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for refractory plantar fasciitis. Read the current version directly, because guidance can be updated or replaced. TRIMAX does not summarise it here and does not give medical advice.

What the equipment involves

• Generation of the wave. On the LiKAWAVE VARIO the shockwave is generated pneumatically, and a handpiece with a transmitter delivers it to the treatment area.
• Parameters on the spec sheet. Pressure (VARIO 3i: up to 6.5 bar), energy flux density, EFD (up to 0.88 mJ/mm²), pulse frequency (1 to 25 Hz), maximum pulses per treatment (5,000) and the transmitters available (S to XXL), which set the treatment depth and area (up to 55 mm).
• Wide focus. LiKAMED states that its wide-focus technology spreads the shockwave over an area instead of a single focal point.
• Who may operate it. The Medical Device Authority register entry for the LiKAWAVE VARIO i-Family says shockwave treatment must be performed only by persons with medical training, that improper use may cause serious injury to patients, and that the unit is intended for use indoors.

Settings and protocols for any patient are set by the treating clinician in line with the manufacturer's instructions for use, which also list precautions and contraindications. Ask your supplier for them before you buy.

Questions to ask a supplier

• What is the MDA registration number and the registered intended purpose?
• Which transmitters and accessories are included, and which are consumables?
• Can I see the instructions for use, including precautions and contraindications?
• What training and warranty come with the device, and who services it in Malaysia?
• Can I see a demonstration in my clinic?

Next step

TRIMAX supplies LiKAWAVE shockwave devices in Malaysia, with installation, staff training, preventive maintenance and repair from Kuala Lumpur. See also Class IV laser vs shockwave therapy. Talk to a product specialist to arrange a demonstration.

This article is general technical information for equipment buyers, not medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether a therapy is suitable for each patient and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.