Shockwave Therapy

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy at Core Physio is a multidisciplinary device used in sports medicine, orthopaedics, and also physiotherapy. It is a non-surgical therapy that is also used as part of rehabilitation. Promoting recovery by providing pain relief as well as mobility restoration too. It can also be used in a number of musculoskeletal conditions, including tendon problems, bursitis, and also bone injuries.

How Does It Work?

Initially, the treatment initiates a pro-inflammatory response. An inflammation-like condition, in the tissue that is being treated. Blood circulation and metabolism in the area increase, which in turn accelerates the healing process. The shockwaves then break down scar tissue and bony deposits stimulating new healing.

So What Can Be Treated?

Shockwave Has Been Used To Treat The Following Conditions:

Plantar fasciitis
Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder
Tennis/golfer’s elbow
Achilles tendinopathy
Patellar tendinopathy/jumper’s knee
Trochanteric bursitis
Morton’s neuroma
Medial tibial stress syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What Are The Benefits Of Shockwave Therapy?

Non-invasive
No need for surgery or medication
Transient analgesic effect after treatment
No lengthy rehabilitation, loss of mobility or time away from work
Fewer complications
Strong clinical results with 8–12 weeks
Can Anyone Have Shockwave?

Most people are appropriate for shockwave therapy. However, if any of the following criteria apply to you, this would also need to be discussed with your clinician:

Corticosteroid injections to the painful area in the last three months
Anti-coagulation medication
Blood clotting disorders, ie. haemophilia
Thrombosis ie. blood clots
Heart/circulatory problems
Pacemaker
Acute infection/inflammation in the area to be treated
History of cancer
Decreased sensation in the affected area
Open wounds
Pregnancy

How Successful Is It?

Core Physio shockwave has been shown to be effective in 80–85% of cases involving chronic conditions.

Pain relief normally occurs within one to two weeks of treatment, but the final outcome can only be evaluated several months after treatment has ended as the healing process will be ongoing.

Frequently asked questions about Shockwave Therapy

Is the treatment painful?

Most people report the treatment as tolerable. If you cannot tolerate it, please inform your clinician. Adjustments can be made.

Does it hurt afterwards?

Discomfort may be experienced for approximately one to two hours after treatment. Normally, it will resolve within 48 hours. Over-the-counter pain relief can also be used to help manage this too.

Are there any other side effects?

Skin redness or minor bruising over the tender area can also occur but normally resolves within two to three days.

What activities should I avoid after treatment?

We strongly advise you to avoid any activity that will stress the treated area for at least 48 hours after each treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

Normally 3–5 treatment sessions, 7 days apart, is sufficient. Severe chronic conditions may require more sessions.

Who performs the treatment?

Shockwave therapy treatment may be performed by sports physicians, also orthopaedic consultants, and also physiotherapists.

Is shockwave therapy treatment covered by private healthcare insurance?

Some, but not all private healthcare insurance companies will cover the cost of shockwave therapy eswt. Please speak with your provider directly.