Shockwave Therapy

Midlands Shockwave and Physiotherapy ClinicTherapy ServicesShockwave Therapy

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that involves shockwaves being passed through the skin to the injured area of the body.

At Midlands Shockwave & Physiotherapy Clinic our specialist physiotherapists follow the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for using shockwave therapy to treat persistent conditions.  Examples of these conditions are:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Tennis/Golfers elbow
  • Patellar tendonitis
  • Trochanteric bursitis
  • Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder
  • Shin splints

It can also be used to treat acupuncture points and trigger points.

So, if you have a persistent condition then speak with us as it may be that shockwave therapy can help to boost the healing process and offer the solution to your pain.

 

 

 

Shockwave Frequently Asked Questions

What is ESWT?
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves shockwaves being passed through the skin to the injured area of the body. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has endorsed the use of Shockwave therapy for Plantar Faciitis, Achilles Tendinopathy, Tennis and Golfers Elbow, Trochanteric Bursitis, Patella Tendinopathy, Calcification Tendonitis of the Shoulder and Shin Splints.
How effective is ESWT?
ESWT is an effective method for treating persistent conditions, like those mentioned in the NICE Guidelines. For the most common cause of heel pain - Plantar Fasciitis, some studies have shown a success rate of nearly 90% for the effectiveness of Shockwave in treating this condition.
What is involved in the procedure?
Extracorporeal means outside of the body and the procedure is very safe. Prior to the treatment, a gel is applied to the affected area. Shockwaves are delivered to the site of pain via a probe placed against the skin. During the treatment, you will hear repetitive clicking sounds. The procedure usually take no longer than 10 minutes per session.
What conditions can be treated with ESWT?
NICE advocates the use of Shockwave therapy for Plantar Faciitis, Achilles Tendinopathy, Tennis and Golfers Elbow, Trochanteric Bursitis, Patella Tendinopathy, Calcification Tendonitis of the Shoulder and Shin Splints. Shockwave Therapy can also be used to treat Myofascial Trigger Points.
How many sessions of ESWT will I need?
ESWT is most effective when someone has 3-6 sessions with a 1-2 week gap between sessions. This will vary dependent on individual response to treatment.
How long will it take to recover from ESWT?
ESWT causes your body to make new cells in the damaged area. Although healing can occur in a few days, it’s not uncommon for full recovery to take weeks or even months. Due to this, it is common to arrange a follow up appointment 12 weeks after your final Shockwave Therapy session. In 20% of patients, a second series of Shockwave Therapy sessions may be required. A significant benefit of having ESWT is you do not need to plan any time off work or your life.
Why should I have ESWT?
ESWT works best for people who have not responded well enough to other treatments, such as physiotherapy, ice, painkillers or steroid injection. Shockwave Therapy offers a non-invasive option for chronic conditions, so surgery may be avoided. You will be able to have this treatment is a clinic setting.
I've had my problem for so long now, is it too late to have ESWT?
No. When a condition has persisted for a while, the natural healing process slows down. By delivering Shockwaves, this healing process will be given a boost, increasing blood flow to the injured area and causing new cell tissue growth. So, don’t be discouraged, ESWT can offer the solution to your pain.
Is ESWT covered by my health insurance?
More Insurance Companies will pay for ESWT since the NICE guidelines recommended Shockwave Therapy as an effective non-invasive treatment option for persistent conditions. However, it is best to check with your Insurance Company to see if your individual policy has ESQT included. If it isn’t, our fees for ESWT are extremely competitive.
How does ESWT differ to laser therapy?
Lasers and other pressure wave devices are used for relaxing muscles and trigger point pain. Lasers do not produce the same focused waves like ESWT, and so, are less effective in the treatment of persistent conditions, such as those outlined by the NICE Guidelines.