Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues. It's particularly effective for chronic conditions that haven't responded to conventional treatment methods.
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is an advanced, evidence-based treatment that uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Unlike traditional treatments that simply mask pain, shockwave therapy addresses the root cause by promoting tissue regeneration, breaking down calcifications, and improving blood flow to the affected area. The treatment works by creating controlled micro-trauma to the tissue, which triggers the body's healing response and encourages the formation of new blood vessels, ultimately leading to long-term pain relief and functional improvement.
Shockwave therapy is ideal for individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have persisted for more than three months, particularly those who haven't responded well to conventional physiotherapy or medication. It's highly effective for athletes dealing with tendinopathies, runners with plantar fasciitis, office workers with chronic shoulder pain, and anyone experiencing conditions like tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy, or calcific shoulder tendinitis. This treatment is especially valuable for patients looking to avoid surgery or reduce their reliance on pain medication, as well as those seeking a faster return to their sport or daily activities.
During a shockwave therapy session, our chartered physiotherapist will apply a gel to the affected area and use a handheld device to deliver focused acoustic waves directly to the injured tissue. Each session typically lasts 5-10 minutes per treatment area. You may experience some discomfort during the treatment, often described as a deep, rhythmic tapping sensation, but this is generally well-tolerated and indicates the therapy is reaching the target tissue. Most conditions require 3-5 sessions spaced one week apart, though your physiotherapist will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition. Many patients notice improvement after the first session, with continued progress over the following weeks as tissue regeneration occurs.
- Chronic Tendinopathies: Highly effective for tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and jumper's knee.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Excellent results for persistent heel and foot pain.
- Shoulder Conditions: Treats calcific tendinitis and rotator cuff issues.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Helps runners and athletes overcome stubborn Achilles pain.
- Hip and Knee Pain: Addresses conditions like trochanteric bursitis and patellar tendinopathy.
- Back and Neck Pain: Relieves chronic spinal pain and muscle tension.
