What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy at Core Physio is a multidisciplinary device used in sports medicine, orthopaedics, and physiotherapy. It is a non-surgical therapy that is used as part of rehabilitation to promote recovery by providing pain relief as well as mobility restoration. It can also be used in a number of musculoskeletal conditions, including tendon problems, bursitis, and bone injuries.
How Does It Work?
Initially The treatment initiates a pro-inflammatory response, an inflammation-like condition, in the tissue that is being treated. Blood circulation and metabolism in the area increases, which in turn accelerates the healing process. The shockwaves then break down scar tissue and bony deposits stimulating new healing.
So What Can Be Treated?
Shockwave Has Been Used To Treat The Following Conditions:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder
- Tennis/golfer’s elbow
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Patellar tendinopathy/jumper’s knee
- Trochanteric bursitis
- Morton’s neuroma
- Medial tibial stress syndrome
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What Are The Benefits Of Shockwave Therapy?
- Non-invasive
- No need for surgery or medication
- Transient analgesic effect after treatment
- No lengthy rehabilitation, loss of mobility or time away from work
- Fewer complications
- Strong clinical results with 8–12 weeks
- Can Anyone Have Shockwave?
Most people are appropriate for shockwave therapy. However, if any of the following criteria apply to you, this would need to be discussed with your clinician:
- Corticosteroid injections to the painful area in the last three monthsAnti-coagulation medication
- Blood clotting disorders, ie. haemophilia
- Thrombosis ie. blood clots
- Heart/circulatory problems
- Pacemaker
- Acute infection/inflammation in the area to be treated
- History of cancer
- Decreased sensation in affected area
- Open wounds
- Pregnancy
How Successful Is It?
Core Physio has been shown to be effective in 80–85% of cases involving chronic conditions.
Pain relief normally occurs within one to two weeks of treatment, but the final outcome can only be evaluated several months after treatment has ended as the healing process will be ongoing.
Some Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the treatment painful?
Most people report the treatment as uncomfortable, but tolerable. If you cannot tolerate it, please inform your clinician. Adjustments can be made.
Does it hurt afterwards?
Discomfort may be experienced for approximately one to two hours after treatment. Normally, it will resolve within 48 hours. Over-the-counter pain relief can be used to help manage this.
Are there any other side-effects?
Skin redness or minor bruising over the tender area can occur but normally resolves within two to three days.
What activities should I avoid after treatment?
We strongly advise you to avoid any activity that will stress the treated area for at least 48 hours after each treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
Normally 3–5 treatment sessions, 7 –14 days apart, is sufficient. Severe chronic conditions may require more sessions.
Who performs the treatment?
Shockwave therapy treatment may be performed by sports physicians, orthopaedic consultants, and physiotherapists.
Is shockwave therapy treatment covered by private healthcare insurance?
Some, but not all private healthcare insurance companies will cover the cost of shock wave therapy eswt. Please speak with your provider directly.