Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can be used for a number of persistent tendon and soft tissue problems.
It is often considered when pain has been present for some time or has not responded sufficiently to other treatments.
At Corsham Physiotherapy, shockwave therapy is provided following an assessment by one of our physiotherapists and is usually combined with other appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses acoustic waves which are delivered through the skin to the affected area using a handheld applicator.
Despite the name, there are no electrical shocks involved.
The treatment creates a mechanical stimulus within the tissues. Exactly how shockwave therapy produces its effects is still being investigated, but it is thought to influence pain and stimulate biological processes within the treated area.
What conditions can shockwave therapy help?
Shockwave therapy is most commonly used for persistent tendon problems and conditions which have not settled as expected.
Conditions we may use shockwave therapy for include:
- Plantar fasciitis and persistent heel pain
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (pain around the outside of the hip)
Whether shockwave therapy is appropriate will depend on your individual problem, how long you have had your symptoms and what treatment or rehabilitation you have already tried.
What happens during shockwave treatment?
Before starting treatment, your physiotherapist will assess the problem and discuss whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for you.
A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and the shockwave applicator is placed over the area being treated. The machine then delivers a series of acoustic waves into the tissues.
Treatment itself only takes a few minutes and the intensity can be adjusted according to the area being treated and your comfort.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
Shockwave therapy can feel uncomfortable, particularly when treating a sensitive area, but the treatment should remain tolerable.
Your physiotherapist can adjust the intensity during treatment if necessary.
It is also possible to experience some temporary soreness, redness or bruising afterwards. Your physiotherapist will explain what to expect and advise you about activity following treatment.
How many shockwave treatments will I need?
Shockwave therapy is usually provided as a short course of treatment rather than a single session.
The number and frequency of treatments will depend on the condition being treated, how long you have had the problem and how you respond.
Your physiotherapist will discuss this with you following your assessment.
Shockwave therapy as part of physiotherapy
We don’t generally view shockwave therapy as a treatment in isolation.
Persistent tendon problems often benefit from a combination of approaches. Depending on your individual problem, treatment may also include:
- Advice about activity and managing load
- Exercises to gradually strengthen the affected tendon and surrounding muscles
- Hands-on physiotherapy where appropriate
- Other treatment modalities where clinically indicated
- A gradual return to sport, exercise or normal activity
Our aim is not simply to treat the painful area, but to help you understand what is contributing to the problem and develop a treatment plan that helps you return to the activities that matter to you.
Shockwave Therapy in Corsham
Shockwave therapy is available at Corsham Physiotherapy for suitable tendon and soft tissue conditions.
If you’re unsure whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your problem, you don’t need to decide before booking. Your physiotherapist can assess your symptoms, discuss the available treatment options with you and agree the most appropriate approach.
To book an appointment or find out more, contact Corsham Physiotherapy.