Shock Wave Therapy
What Is Shock Wave Therapy?
Radial shock wave therapy initiates repair and healing in targeted tissue using acoustic frequencies which stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms to get you “back on your feet.” Referred to as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) in research, this treatment is a non-invasive, outpatient alternative to surgery for those with many joint and tendon disorders. ESWT sends acoustic shock waves into soft tissue, in effect causing micro-injury to the area on a cellular level and breaking up the scar tissue on tendons and ligaments. The controlled reinjuring of tissue allows the body to regenerate. The resulting revascularization leads to faster healing and often a return to pre-injury activity levels.
There are no electrical shocks, the treatment is safe and non-invasive. A gel is applied to the affected area, a probe is applied to the area delivering high-pressure acoustic waves. This usually takes 5-10 minutes in each affected area. The treatment consists of weekly visits over 3-6 weeks and depends on the severity of the injury (usually a chronic condition).
What conditions is Shock Wave Therapy used for?
Shock wave has research to prove it is effective for a variety of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Especially when conservative management has failed and can be used for the following conditions:
Achilles Tendinopathy
Ankle Ligament Injuries
Peroneal Tendinopathy (Lateral Foot Pain)
Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy
Shin Splints
When is it not safe to use Shock Wave Therapy?
It is not safe to use radial shock wave therapy if you have any of the following conditions:
Blood clotting disorder
Cancer
Pregnancy
Prescribed anti-coagulant medication.
Steroid injection administered within the specific area within 6 weeks prior to treatment.
Skin Infection or wounds at the treatment site
When do you start seeing results?
Radial Shock Wave Therapy often results in pain reduction and an increase in range of motion after the procedure.
The effects of tissue healing can take weeks to months and depends on the condition, tissue healing begins after a few days.
How does Shock Wave Therapy work?
Stimulates collegan production (fibroblast activity) which initiates healing in connective tissues (such as ligaments and tendons)
Stimulates bone cell (osteoblast) production which encourages bone to heal
Decreases the amount of substance P which is linked to pain sensation
Increases blood flow to the affected area
Breaks down scar tissue formation
Inhibits Cox II Enzyme which produces an anti-inflammatory effect
It is important to note that this treatment is not suitable for everyone and your podiatrist will advise you if this is not a suitable option for you. Although it is effective in some people, this treatment does not work for everyone.
