Shock Wave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy [Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy] is a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave is a physical sound wave “shock”, not an electric one.

How does it work?

1. Treatment produces an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the site of pain. This stimulates and accelerates the healing process (promotes the remodelling of dysfunctional collagenous tissues, such as tendinopathies, trigger points, muscle strains, etc.).
2. Shockwaves break down scar tissue and/or calcification
3. Transmission of pain is diminished through neurological mechanisms (inhibition of the sensory receptors that detect pain)

Conditions suitable for shockwave therapy

Plantar fasciitis:

Heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia (a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot)

Achilles tendinopathy:

Pain in the achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis):

Pain on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse.

Other conditions:

Shockwave therapy can also be used for conditions like calcific tendinopathy (calcium build up in tendons) and patellar tendinopathy (pain in the tendon below the kneecap).

What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?

This therapy stimulates the body’s natural self-healing process. There is actually an immediate reduction of pain and improved range of motion.

How long does the treatment last?

Approximately 2000 shocks are administered per treatment area (the duration of which is approximately 5 minutes). Some patients and/or conditions require more shocks and duration, depending on severity and chronicity (how long the condition or injury has existed).

How many treatments will I need?

Normally three to five treatments are necessary at weekly intervals; there is a small possibility that 2 or more additional treatments may be necessary if your condition is very chronic. Combining with other treatments i.e osteopathy/massage etc. will reduce number of treatments . Success rates with ESWT are unparalleled (over 80=90% improvement).

Does the treatment hurt?

It is a short treatment (usually five to twenty minutes) that may be fairly uncomfortable. However, most people are able to easily tolerate it. However, if you cannot tolerate it, adjustments on the machine can decrease the pressure you feel.

Will it hurt after the treatment?

There may or may not be immediate pain, but some discomfort may be experienced 2-4 hours after the treatment. In some cases it can last up to 48 hours and in very rare cases, the pain lasted up to 5 days. Some bruising and swelling can occur.

What should I do if I am in pain after the treatment?

The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body’s natural process of healing. Do not use ice. The pain should subside within 24 hours.

What if it feels good after the treatment?

Even if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hours following the treatment.

What is the success rate of this kind of treatment?

A successful treatment is considered as a patient having at least 75% reduction in pain within 3 months. Worldwide, success rates are around 80 to 90%.

What if it doesn’t work for me?

Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3-4 months. If after this time there has not been any marked improvement, you should see your doctor for further treatment options.

Are there contraindications and/or precautions?

Contraindications include:

• Coagulation disorders, thrombosis, heart or circulatory patients
• Use of anticoagulants, especially Marcumar, Heparin, Coumadin
• Tumour diseases, carcinoma, cancer patients
• Pregnancy
• Polyneuropathy in case of diabetes mellitus
• Acute inflammations / pus focus in the target area
• Children
• Cortisonetherapy up to 6 weeks before first treatment

Side effects include: (These side effects generally abate after 5 to 10 days.)

• Swelling, reddening, haematomas
• Petechiae, bruising
• Pain
• Skin lesions (especially after previous cortisone therapy)