What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that used sound waves to reduce pain and stimulate healing in affected tissues. Originally developed to treat kidney stones, ESWT has evolved into a versatile therapy used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinopathy. The shockwaves are applied directly to the area of pain or injury, promoting blood flow, breaking down calcifications, and encouraging the body's natural healing processes.
How does it work?
During shockwave therapy, a device delivers acoustic waves to the injured tissues. The waves create a mechanical pressure on the tissues, leading to increased blood flow, tissue regeneration, and a reduction in inflammation and pain. The exact mechanisms by which shockwave therapy works are not fully understood, but it is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes.
A study in 2018 by Dedes et all found shockwave therapy achieved a significant reduction in pain as well as a significant improvement in both the functionality and quality of life after the completion of the therapeutic intervention and the 4-week follow-up in patients suffering from plantar fasciitis, elbow tendinopathy, achilles tendinopathy and rotator cuff tendinopathy.
What conditions can shockwave help with?
Research shows evidence for Shockwave being particularly effective for :
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
Achilles tendinopathy
Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
Tennis or Golfers elbow
Sub-acromial pain syndrome (rotator cuff pain)
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (outer hip pain)
What are the benefits of Shockwave Therapy?
Non-Invasive: No surgery, incisions, or lengthy recovery times.
Pain Relief: Quickly reduces pain and inflammation, often after just a few sessions.
Accelerated Healing: Stimulates the body's natural healing processes, speeding up recovery.
Improved Mobility: Helps restore movement and flexibility in affected areas.
Minimal Side Effects: Unlike medications, ESWT has few side effects, making it a safer alternative for long-term treatment.
Cost-Effective: A more affordable option compared to surgery and long-term medication use.
Is Shockwave Therapy safe?
When considering any medical treatment, safety is always a top priority. At OsteoBath, we understand your concerns and are here to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Shockwave therapy is a proven, non-invasive treatment method used worldwide for a variety of conditions. Here’s why it’s considered one of the safest therapies available. Shockwave Therapy is considered safe, non-invasive, lower cost and without the dangers of the surgical procedure and postoperative pain. During and after the session there may be some discomfort felt in the affected area but this tends to diminish over 48 hours.
At OsteoBath, we go above and beyond to ensure that your Shockwave Therapy experience is safe and effective:
Expert Practitioner: An experienced osteopath will deliver your Shockwave Therapy Treatments. We are highly trained and experts in administering Shockwave Therapy. We follow best practices and uses state-of-the-art equipment to deliver safe and precise treatments.
Personalised Treatment Plans: Before beginning therapy, we conduct a thorough assessment to determine if Shockwave Therapy is appropriate for your condition. We tailor each treatment plan to meet your unique needs, ensuring optimal results with minimal risk.
Continuous Monitoring: During your treatment, the osteopath will closely monitor your response to the therapy, making adjustments as needed to ensure your comfort and safety.
Post-Treatment Care: The osteopath will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you manage any mild side effects and maximise the benefits of your treatment.
What happens during a Shockwave Therapy session?
Following a consultation and assessment, a diagnosis is made and the injured tissue identified. The osteopath will apply a gel like substance to the painful area. A hand held device is held against the target tissue and impulses (shockwaves) are transmitted through the skin. The treatment is typically well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort. You can return to your regular activities immediately after treatment with little to no downtime.
Is Shockwave Therapy right for you?
While Shockwave Therapy is safe for most people, there are certain situations where it may not be recommended:
Pregnancy: Shockwave Therapy is generally not advised for pregnant women due to the lack of research on its effects during pregnancy.
Blood Clotting Disorders: Individuals with blood clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications may need to avoid this treatment to prevent excessive bruising or bleeding.
Infection or Tumor at the Treatment Site: Shockwave Therapy is not suitable for areas with active infections or tumors. If you are unsure whether Shockwave Therapy is suitable for you, please don’t hesitate to contact our osteopaths who can discuss your condition and determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific case.
Why pick OsteoBath for Shockwave Therapy?
At OsteoBath we are committed to providing top-tier care with the latest technology and a compassionate approach. Our experienced practitioners are trained in the most advanced ESWT techniques, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care. Whether you’re an athlete looking to get back in the game or someone seeking relief from chronic pain, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Take the first step towards pain relief and healing. Contact us today to book your consultation and learn more about how Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy can benefit you.