Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave or Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a non-surgical technique developed for the treatment of localized musculoskeletal pain. Common conditions that can be successfully treated with Shockwave Therapy include:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel Spurs
- Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)
- Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis
- Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
- Rotator Cuff tendonitis including calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder
- Muscular trigger points
Evidence supporting the use of Shockwave therapy is developing. There is currently strong evidence for calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder, plantar fasciitis, and more recently, Shockwave therapy has expanded to the treatment of chronic injuries such as patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) and Achilles tendinopathy. The success rate has ranged from 65% to 91% improvement, with low and negligible complications (Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 2012). Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical option with results that match surgical outcomes, and should be considered when other treatment options have failed.
How does Radial Shockwave Therapy work?
Radial Shockwave Therapy involves the application of a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave is a physical shock, not an electric one. The shockwave causes interstitial and extracellular responses that accelerate tissue regeneration, particularly in cases where the body has been unable to do so on its own. It stimulates metabolism and improves blood circulation to facilitate the healing and regeneration of damaged tissue. Shockwave Therapy can also relieve pain by producing an analgesic effect on the treatment area.
What can I expect from a Shockwave Therapy treatment session?
- An initial assessment must be conducted to determine if Shockwave Therapy is an appropriate treatment option for your condition
- Shockwave Therapy (SWT) is used when all other treatments have been exhausted.
- It is for a chronic injury that has persisted more than 3 months.
- It is most effective for conditions resulting from connective tissue attachments to bone. See the list above.
- It is usually booked as 3 - 5 treatments 1X/ week for 3 - 5 weeks. Then we wait an additional 3 weeks without treatment to allow for healing to take place
What is Shockwave Therapy or Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy or Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a non-surgical technique developed for the treatment of localized musculoskeletal pain. This treatment involves the application of a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave is a physical shock, not an electric one.
How does it work?
Radial Shockwave Therapy works by producing an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the site of pain, therefore stimulating and accelerating the healing process. Shockwave therapy can also help break down scar tissue and calcified areas as well.
What areas of the body or conditions can be treated?
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)
- Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis
- Tennis and Golfer’s elbow
- Rotator Cuff tendonitis including calcifying tendonitis
- Muscular trigger points
What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment
This therapy works without the use of X-rays or drugs; it stimulates the body’s natural self-healing process. There is usually an immediate reduction of pain and improved ease of movement. Secondary effects are minor. Shockwave therapy may also eliminate your need for surgery. It is also especially effective for chronic conditions.
How long does each treatment last?
The Shockwave Therapy is approximately 5 minutes per point, or approximately 2000 shocks per session. Shockwave is used as an adjunct to Physiotherapy. A one-hour initial assessment plus treatment will be conducted by one of our trained Physiotherapists.
How many treatments will I need?
Typically 3 treatments sessions are necessary at weekly intervals. There is a possibility that 2 additional treatments may be necessary if your condition is very chronic.
Does the treatment itself, hurt?
Treatment can be uncomfortable, but it is usually well tolerated. It is an intense 5 minutes that most people are able to tolerate.
Will it hurt after the treatment?
As you leave the clinic, you will most likely be feeling no pain but you may experience throbbing pain 2-4 hours following the treatment. This throbbing pain may occur for up to 24 to 48 hours.
What should I do if I am in pain following the treatment?
The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body’s natural process of healing. For this reason, refrain from using anti-inflammatory medications or ice. Use Advil or Tylenol if necessary.
What if it feels good following the treatment?
Even if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hrs following the treatment.
Is Shockwave Therapy covered by my insurance?
You will be invoiced under physiotherapy. If you have physiotherapy benefits it should be covered, but check with your provider.
What is the success rate for this kind of treatment?
- Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)- up to 91%
- Calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder- up to 91%
- Plantar Fasciitis- up to 88%
- Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)- up to 87%
- Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis- up to 87%
What if it doesn’t work for me?
Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3 to 4 months.
Are there contraindications and/or precautions I should be aware of?
YES
- Cortisone injections (within the last 6 weeks)
- Hemophilia or any blood coagulation disorder
- Blood thinning medications such as Heparin or Coumadin
- Heart or circulatory problems
- Cancer, Diabetes, Pregnancy
- Growing children (Growth Plates)
- Blood or nerve supplies too close to the affected area
- Shockwaves are generally not applied to target areas located above air filled tissue (lungs), large nerves and blood vessels, the spinal column or the head
Ask your physiotherapist if Shockwave Therapy can treat your condition and book your treatment sessions today!
What is the success rate for this kind of treatment?
- Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)- up to 91%
- Calcifying tendonitis of the shoulder- up to 91%
- Plantar Fasciitis- up to 88%
- Patellar Tendonitis/tendonosis (Jumper’s knee)- up to 87%
- Achilles Tendonitis/tendonosis- up to 87%