Shockwave therapy is an established and effective treatment used in combination with an appropriate physiotherapy exercise program for soft-tissue injuries, recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), is clinically proven, covered by private health insurers and recognised by the top orthopaedic hospitals and professional sports bodies such as the Scottish Institute of Sport.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive form of therapy that is used in the treatment of a wide range of painful conditions. Extracorporeal means outside the body. ESWT works by a high energy soundwave being delivered through the skin to the injured body part via a hand held probe. These sound waves cause an increase in blood flow, which stimulates the body’s healing response.
There is a growing body of research that shows ESWT is highly beneficial, but it has been shown to be particularly effective in the treatment of chronic tendon issues such as;
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinopathy
• Patellar Tendinopathy/ Jumpers Knee
•Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
•Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy
•Lateral Epicondylitis/ Tennis Elbow
•Calcific Tendonitis in the Shoulder
Some studies have shown it can improve symptoms for up to 70-80% of patients. Current research suggests that 3 sessions of shockwave is required to have the desired effect but some patients may require additional sessions. Shockwave therapy is only clinically effective when combined with an appropriate strengthening program.