EXTRACORPOREAL
SHOCKWAVE THERAPY (ESWT)
It is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment, aimed at stimulating the body’s natural healing process in injured soft tissues. It is commonly used to treat chronic (long term) tendon problems and is now widely used as part of a rehabilitation protocol in orthopaedics and sports medicine.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
WHAT DOES SHOCKWAVE THERAPY TREAT?
HOW DOES ESWT WORK?
Radial shockwave Therapy RWST is used to treat a range of conditions, specifically chronic injuries (lasting for 3 months or longer) which haven’t responded to other forms of treatment.
Radial Shockwave therapy is a form of extracorporeal SWT that uses high energy waves that are generated from a handheld device which pass through the skin and are aimed at the injured tissue, stimulating increased blood flow, cell regeneration (new tissue growth) and healing.
It can relieve pain and promote healing in injured tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues.
Common conditions Shockwave Therapy can help with:
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Plantar fasciitis
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Achilles Tendinopathy
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Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
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Golfers elbow (medial epicondylitis)
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Rotator cuff tendinopathy
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Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder
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Patella tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
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Shin splints
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Greater trochanteric pain syndrome or hip bursitis/tendinopathy
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Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
The benefits of Shockwave Therapy
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Stimulate and accelerating healing
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Non-invasive
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Improves mobility
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Effective pain relief
IS SHOCKWAVE THERAPY PAINFUL?
You may experience some discomfort during the treatment; however, most people describe the pain as bearable. Pain relief can be experienced immediately or within 24 hours after treatment. Patients can also experience a dull ache for 1-2 days after treatment. Patients should not use anti-inflammatory medication or ice on the affected area as this will interfere with the body’s natural healing abilities.
The therapist can tailor the intensity of the shockwave specifically to each patient taking into consideration their condition, treatment, response and level of improvement.
IS SHOCKWAVE THERAPY SAFE?
Radial shockwave therapy is non-invasive, very safe to use and is now widely used by medical professionals in the NHS, private healthcare and sports medicine.
Is there evidence to support the effective use of Shockwave Therapy?
Various studies have shown evidence that Shockwave Therapy is a clinically proven to reduce pain for patients presenting primarily with chronic tendon disorders whilst improving function and promoting healing, if combined with appropriate exercises and specific prescribed rest periods post treatment.
It is considered a successful second line treatment for patients who fail to respond to appropriate conservative management from a physical therapist.
How many sessions will you need?
How much will it cost?
The number of treatment sessions will depend on the type of condition being treated.
The research suggests that most conditions will need between 4-6 sessions. Each shockwave treatment will last about 5-10 minutes and they are most effective when done no more than 7-10 days apart.
It is essential to stick to any post treatment instructions such as exercises and rest periods and to communicate any concerns/questions with your practitioner.
The number of sessions will be guided by the practitioner depending on the condition and the appropriate treatment protocol.
Single/initial consultation - £60 1hour
This will include taking a full case history, examination and a bespoke treatment plan which will be discussed and will likely include some exercises. The shockwave treatment will last up to 10 minutes. The session may also involve manual treatment such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue manipulation and kinesiology taping.
Further 3-5 sessions if block booked - £165 - £275
(£55/session) 40mins
If you have any questions or want to find out more then please either call the clinic on 01827 736710 or email us on info@atherstone-activetherapy.co.uk