The Evolution of Shockwave Therapy
The term “shockwave therapy” means the mechanical pressure pulses that expand as a wave within the human body. Going back almost 30 years, the shockwave method was used for the first time to disintegrate kidney stones in a patient.
The progression of this revolutionary treatment over the past two decades means this method has become an almost standard treatment choice and can now treat more conditions than ever before.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy treatment is a highly effective treatment available for patients with chronic and acute tendon disorders. It is widely used by sports physicians and is a very successful second line treatment for patients who fail to respond to other treatments.
How Shockwave Therapy actually works?
Shockwave Therapy is a completely non-surgical treatment, and works by delivering impulses of energy, targeted to specific damaged tissues within the abnormal tendon tissue.
This increases the blood flow within the affected area, stimulating cell regeneration and healing, and decreasing local factors which can cause pain.
What happens during the procedure?
During your Shockwave Therapy procedure, a gel is applied and a probe is pressed on to the affected area and the shockwaves are delivered through the skin.
The impulses are delivered through the skin as a shockwave that spreads inside the injured tissue as an aspherical “radial” wave. These radial shockwaves initiate an inflammation-like response in the injured tissue that is being treated, and prompts the body to respond naturally by increasing blood circulation, the number of blood vessels and therefore metabolism in the injured tissue.
How does Shockwave Therapy feel?
The shockwaves are felt as pulses which can be slightly uncomfortable but not painful. The physiotherapist applying your treatment will start with a low level of intensity and increase this to a point where you feel comfortable, if at any point during the procedure you wish to stop, please signal this to your physiotherapist.
Patients are usually treated in our clinic, in a relaxed, non-surgical atmosphere and the procedure does not require any type of sedation or anaesthetic. You will generally require 3-4 sessions of Shockwave Therapy to complete your treatment.
Here are some examples of what we can treat with Shockwave Therapy;
- Planter Fasciitis (Jogger’s Heel)
- Achilles Tendinopathy
- Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow
- Medial Tibial Periostitis (Shin Splints)
- Muscle Trigger Points
- Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)
- Muscle & Connective Tissue Activation
- Trochanteric Bursitis (Lateral Hip Pain)
- Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder
- De Quervains Tenosynovitis of the Thumb
Advantages of Shockwave Therapy Treatment
- Fast and effective treatment times
- Fewer complications
- No surgery needed
- No medication needed
- No anaesthesia
- Non-invasive
- Quick recovery
- Quick results
- Virtually painless after procedure
Will Shockwave Therapy be covered by my private medical insurance?
Shockwave Therapy is recommended by NICE, which means that the vast majority of Private Medical Insurers will cover the treatment. However, it is absolutely essential that we advise our patients consult their insurance companies and obtain written confirmation that they will be covered prior to the commencement of the Shockwave Therapy sessions.
What can I expect after my shockwave treatment?
Many patients experience an improvement in symptoms almost immediately while others take several weeks to respond. There may be a transient reddening or swelling of the area with some patients experiencing a brief increase in pain.
It may take several weeks to see an overall benefit. It is suggested that your referring Doctor or surgeon reviews you at 6-8 weeks to assess your overall progress.
The Shockwave Therapy treatment available at Physio Team-Works is complimented with our specialist Physiotherapy service. The combination of the Shockwave treatment and Physiotherapy is known to have increased treatment benefits, and we are pleased to be able to offer this enhanced service.
Call 01457 837 211 or complete our quick online form to arrange an appointment.
