Shockwave
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses mechanical energy in the form of acoustic waves that increase local circulation and stimulate the body’s healing process. Treatment is targeted on the damaged tissue through a hand-held applicator and can enhance breakdown of adhesions, scar tissue and calcification. It is a safe and effective treatment. Most people experience relief after only a few treatments – they are pain free, with mobility restored and are able to return to work and/or sport.
What should I expect from treatment?
You will be assessed by your physiotherapist at your first visit to confirm that you are an appropriate candidate for shockwave therapy. The therapist will ensure you are educated about your condition and what you can do in conjunction with treatment – activity modification, specific exercises, assessing any other contributing issues such as posture, tightness/weakness of other muscle groups etc. Shockwave treatment is usually done once a week for 3-6 weeks, depending on results. The treatment itself can cause mild discomfort, but it only last about 5-10 minutes, and the intensity can be adjusted to keep it comfortable. After the treatment, you may experience temporary soreness, tenderness or swelling for a few days following the procedure, as the shockwaves stimulate a desired inflammatory response.
Shockwave therapy has shown to effectively treat the following conditions:
- Feet — heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis
- Elbow — tennis and golfers elbow
- Shoulder — calcific tendinosis of rotator cuff muscles, adhesive capsulitis
- Knee — patellar tendinopathy, osteoarthritis
- Hip — bursitis
- Lower leg — shin splints
- Upper leg — Iliotibial band friction syndrome
- Back pain — lumbar and cervical spine regions and chronic muscular pain