Aug 26, 20222 min read

Why Shockwave therapy might be your answer?

Updated: Oct 16, 2023

Are you in constant pain? Have a chronic injury you cannot get rid of ? Or have you tried all conserative options and still not pain free? Shockwave Therapy might be the answer you are looking for!

What is Shockwave Therapy and how does it work?

Shockwave therapy involves the application of high energy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) waves through the surface of the skin. These shockwaves initiate a metabolic reaction in the tissues to help provide pain relief and promote healing.

Shockwave can help to:

Decrease nerve inflammation and pain
Increase growth factors and blood flow
Increase collagen production
Break down of scar tissue and calcification
Release trigger points

How can shockwave therapy help me?

Shockwave can help manage symptoms associated with:

Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs
Patella Tendinopathy and Knee Pain
Hamstring Tendinopathy and Tears
Achilles Tendinopathy
Calcaneal Bursitis
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (‘Shin Splints’)
Calf tightness and strains
Osgood Schlatters Syndrome

What does Shockwave involve?

Patients usually require 5-6 sessions of shockwave therapy at weekly intervals. After the treatment is complete, patients often experience an immediate reduction in pain. This is one of the short-term effects of shockwave therapy due to the immediate reduction in the pain-promoting chemicals.

Keep in mind though as shockwave stimulates the body’s natural healing process it can take a number of weeks to see the best results.

The maximal therapeutic effect is felt about 12 weeks after the initial treatment.

How long does the treatment take?

Each session takes 7-15 minutes to complete, time will be dependent on how many areas are being treated during your session.

Who can have shockwave therapy?

There are a few people for whom shockwave is not recommended.

Shockwave is most effective for chronic conditions. This means it is most suited to treat a musculoskeletal condition that has been present for longer than 6 weeks. We will not provide shockwave therapy on a very recent injury.

Patients who should avoid treatment:

Those with a pacemaker
Currently pregnant
Clotting condition
Taking medication such as anticoagulants (blood thinners)
Patients under 18 years of age

What Costs are Involved?

Custom Podiatry Services charge a fee in addition to our consultation fees for the application of Shockwave Therapy, this can be applied for each of the sessions or a value package can be purchased at your first session. We recommend discussing the costs of treatment at the time of booking your appointment.

Does this sound like something your interested, or that might be the answer for your and your pain ? Book in today with one of our highly skilled podiatrists to discuss whether this treatment option is right for you.