Shock Wave
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in various musculoskeletal conditions. It works by delivering targeted pulses to the affected area, promoting blood circulation, breaking down calcifications, and encouraging tissue regeneration. This effective therapy offers a safe alternative to surgery and often providing significant pain relief and improved function.
What’s Involved in Shockwave Therapy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) involves the delivery of high energy sound impulses which are transferred to the tissue interface via varying methods. There are three applications of shockwave therapy which include focused, defocused and radial. Radial shockwave utilises a handpiece that propagates a diffuse wave into the tissue via air compression of the projectile within the handpiece. The transfer of sonic energy promotes tissue healing.
During the treatment ultrasound gel is applied to the skin which is cool and jelly like in consistency. The application of the hand piece to the skin will be firm and will generate an oscillating vibratory sensation against the skin. ESWT is used usually for 30 seconds to a few minutes with the machine generating a loud noise during use.
- For optimal results, a course of shockwave therapy usually requires 3-5 sessions.
Does Shockwave treatment actually work?
Shockwave has been shown to enhance revascularisation, disruption to fibrous tissue, healing, inflammation control and sensory disruption to pain processing. More specifically, the literature shows improvement in pain scores at 4 weeks – 3 months versus immediate short-term reduction. Importantly, in chronic pain populations, these improvements were maintained at 1- and 3-month time points without regression.
When is Shockwave Therapy appropriate?
Shockwave treatment is most effective in the following conditions:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Elbow tendinopathy
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Calcific shoulder
- Low back pain
If you have one of these conditions and it has not responded to other forms of treatment, shockwave therapy is likely an appropriate intervention to assist your recovery.
This form of treatment is not suitable for all patients; it will be recommended by your Physiotherapist if appropriate.
We welcome a wide range of referrals including:
- NDIS
- GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP)
- DVA
- Workcover
- Medicare Funded
- Self-referral and private clients
