Shockwave therapy (Extracorporeal shockwave therapy or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment, where high-energy waves are passed through the skin to help relieve pain and promote movement in the affected area. It is used for conditions that are normally very difficult to treat.
What can Shockwave Therapy treat?
Shockwave therapy can treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendon pain
- Shoulder tendinopathy
- Quadriceps and patella tendinopathy
- ITB problems
- Tennis and Golfers Elbow
What is the procedure?
Treatment is applied directly to the skin above the affected area with a special handpiece.
Clinicians will apply some gel to improve contact with the skin and will move the special shockwave apparatus over the region of pain, adding a little bit of pressure as they do so. Treatment is quick and will only take 5 to 10 minutes.
The number of sessions needed depends on the nature and severity of pain.
Does it hurt?
Some patients report discomfort during treatment, though this varies depending on the person, the body part and the condition being treated.
An anaesthetic effect can last for a few hours after treatment. A specific rehabilitation programme will be provided by your treating clinician to help maximise the benefits of the treatment.
Is it safe?
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) states that shockwave therapy is safe, although it can cause minor side-effects, including bruising and reddening of skin in the area being treated.
For further information on the conditions we treat and services we offer, or to book an appointment please call 020 8947 2053, email: admin@physiosw19.co.uk or complete the form here.
