Shockwave is a non-surgical solution to pain that has lasted more than 12 weeks. It uses high energy sound waves to stimulate healing and promote blood flow. Shockwave is generally safe with minimal side effects, your therapist will discuss whether it is appropriate for you. Shockwave therapy usually takes place over 3 to 6 sessions for optimum results (80% of patients report a reduction in pain and regain normal function after 3-4 sessions). The handheld device passes short, intense energy sound waves into affected tissues. This increases blood flow and stimulates an acute inflammatory response which allows your body to restart its healing process. It helps to break down the fibrous scar tissue which is present in chronic conditions.
Shockwave therapy should not be used as a stand-alone treatment – each patient needs to attend for an initial assessment and pre-screening prior to starting a course of treatment. It is used alongside manual therapy and rehabilitation to ensure we address the underlying issues with flexibility and strength. This gives your injury the best chance to achieve optimum benefit and to prevent recurrence.
Conditions shockwave can help with:
- Plantar fasciitis and Heel spurs (heel pain on sole of foot)
- Achilles tendinopathy (back of ankle)
- Patellar tendinopathy (knee tendons)
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy (shoulder tendons)
- Calcific tendinitis of shoulder (shoulder tendons)
- Tennis/ Golfers elbow (epicondylitis)
- Lateral Hip Pain (pain on the outside of the hip)
