Shockwave therapy
Radial shockwave therapy is becoming a mainstream successful treatment for chronic tendon pain. Boost your recovery with shockwave therapy alongside your rehabilitation programme to get the best results. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for tendon injuries, Chronic Plantarfaciitis and tendinopathies is provided by several members of our professional team.
How is Shockwave therapy performed?
We aim the Shock Wave Therapy treatment head at the injured area/tendon. The entire procedure lasts no more than twenty minutes. While the treatment is performed, you may be aware of a tapping sensation in the region being treated, which may or may not be painful.
What is a tendinopathy?
In the past 10 years research into tendon pathology has seen our understanding grow. The new term “tendinopathy” has replaced the old term of “tendonitis” as a result of this research and a better understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms. Tendon injuries are usually the result of increased loads and overuse. This leads to changes within the tendon, which make it harder for it to cope. The injuries may occur in the mid-portion or, more commonly, in the insertion. At both sites the pathological changes of the tendon appear to be the same.
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can be treated with Shockwave therapy. It is caused by overuse or injury of the plantarfascia and is defined as traction degeneration of the plantarfascial band at its origin on the medial aspect of the calcaneus (heel area). It commonly is painful the first few steps in the morning or after a period of rest. It tends to get worse the longer one stands during the day.
What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?
We can diagnose and treat this condition with conservative treatment options; such as stretching, night splint, taping, custom orthotics, shoe modification, cortisone injections and anti-inflammatory medications, rest and physiotherapy. However, as plantar fasciitis becomes more chronic it becomes difficult to treat conservatively and surgical options have to be explored. We can also provide shockwave therapy (ESWT) treatments.
How does ESWT reduce heel pain?
In plantarfasciitis, the body’s normal inflammatory response has diminished to a point where blood flow is decreased to the injured area of the fascia. Without adequate blood flow to any injured tissue, the normal repair mechanisms are compromised. ESWT has been demonstrated to initiate angiogenesis, or formation of new blood vessels. This treatment therefore acts to jump-start a normal inflammatory response which can lead to healing in cases where other conservative treatments have not proven effective. The shock waves can also act to over-stimulate pain transmission nerves, which can lead to a reduction in sensitivity and discomfort.
What are the side effects of ESWT?
The most common patient complaint is some minor pain or discomfort during and after treatment. Other side effects might include minor skin bruising, reddening, or swelling of the treated area. This procedure may not be performed on patients with a pacemaker, who may be pregnant or take blood thinners.
For those who like journal articles and systematic reviews, click here for a review of Shockwave: ESWT PDF review Br J Sports Med-2014-Mani-Babu-A40
How do I book in?
Call us on 02076272308 or use our contact page and ask to book in with one of the trained team members for Shockwave Therapy, you will be guided from there. Several private medical insurance companies cover shockwave therapy costs, check with your policy provider.