Extracorpeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a highly effective, safe, non-invasive, evidence based treatment for chronic tendon related pain. It works by delivering highly targeted impulses of energy to the damaged tissue within the abnormal tendon. An increase in blood flow stimulates cell regeneration, healing and reduces pain.

ESWT can help patients suffering from a number of common orthopaedic conditions including:
-Plantar Fasciitis
-Achilles Tendinopathy
-Rotator Cuff Pain/Tendinopathy
-Tennis Elbow
-Golfers Elbow
-Patella Tendinopathy
-Myofascial Pain (e.g. muscle pain from the neck/back)
-Muscle Trigger Points
-Frozen Shoulder
-Shin Splints

What happens during shockwave therapy treatment?

During Shockwave therapy, a high-intensity sound wave interacts with the tissues of the body. This leads to a cascade of beneficial effects such as neovascularisation ingrowth, reversal of chronic inflammation, stimulation of collagen and dissolution of calcium build-up. This leads to regenerations of cells, stimulation of healing and a reduction of pain. The Primo Radial Shockwave Unit used in this clinic provides energy through an electro mechanical process as opposed to compressed mechanical energy therefore making it a more comfortable experience for the patient.

Benefits of shockwave therapy treatment:

• Clinical studies report a success rate above 75% : see link for further information (Clinical evidence – Radial Shockwave Therapy | EMS Physio)
• Non-invasive solution for chronic pain in your shoulder, back, heel, knee or elbow
• Shockwave therapy brings new technology with proven medical effects
• No anesthesia required, no drugs, no surgical intervention
• Minimal side effects
• Recommended by NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence)

FAQ’s:

What Happens during treatment?
Once fully assessed by a chartered physio. The painful area is located through palpation. Ultrasound gel is used to ensure good contact with the area. The shockwave therapy treatment with then be administered using a probe and calibration machine. Each session will vary for each patient dependent on their condition and tolerance to the machine, adjustments can always be made to suit the patient.

How long is the course of treatment?
A typical course of treatment is 4-6 sessions each lasting 5-10 minutes in length (overall time in clinic approx. 20 minutes to allow for a review).
Each treatment tends to be anywhere from 5-12 days apart depending on the patients tolerance/ availability of clinic.

Does the treatment hurt?
There is some mild discomfort with this treatment depending on your level of pain and tolerance however the therapist can easily adjust settings to suit the patient. Additionally as the treatment only lasts 5-10 minutes, most patients tolerate it well.

When should I expect to notice some relief from the treatment?
Some patients will feel some relief after only one session however you will not get full relief until you have completed the course of treatment this could take up to 3-4 sessions.

Is the treatment safe?
Shockwave therapy has been found to have very minimal side effects, these may include mild tingling, aching, redness, bruising which are generally rare and very short lived.

What precautions /contraindication to having this shockwave treatment?
General contraindications include:
• Pregnancy
• Cortisone injections within one month prior to the start of Shockwave Therapy
• Blood clotting disorder e.g. thrombosis or on blood thinning medications such as Aspirin, Heparin, Clopidogrel, Warfarin.
• Cancer in or around the treatment area
• Nerve or blood supply being too close to the site of treatment
• Implanted devices e.g. pacemaker

Precautions include:
• Diabetes
• Heart or circulatory problems
• Open wounds/cuts to the area/signs of infection
• Metalwork/joint replacements
• Implanted hormones.