At The Bingley Physiotherapy Practice we would only choose an intervention when we believe that it will give our clients the best possible results. Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is proving to be an effective treatment for chronic tendon inflammations in the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, Achilles tendon and Plantar Fasciitis (foot or heel pain)
Shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment for soft tissue injuries. It delivers a sound wave into the tissues and it not an electrical pulse. The treatment causes a pro-inflammatory response in the tissue. The body then responds to:
- Increase blood circulation and metabolism in the impact area, promoting cell regeneration and healing
- Break down deep seated scar tissue and calcification within soft tissues and tendons
- Reduce chronic pain in damaged tissues, enabling more effective rehabilitation
It is particularly indicated for chronic Achilles tendinopathy, patella tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder.
Our Approach to Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy forms part of a comprehensive, individual treatment program and is not a ‘quick fix’ to your problem. For the most effective outcome, Shockwave Therapy should be used in conjunction with a full biomechanical assessment to understand what caused the issue in the first place, and a plan to resolve this through manual therapy, movement retaining and rehabilitation program. Shockwave Therapy provides a specific and targeted treatment to the local tissues to promote the healing response.
If we believe that a course of Shockwave therapy would aid your recovery, we will discuss this with you during your consultation. There will be an additional cost if Shockwave Therapy is added to your package of treatment. The recommended course is 3 sessions – one per week for three weeks, in line with the ASSERT protocol findings and The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Treatment price
As Shockwave Therapy will always form part of your treatment plan, the cost of the sessions is an additional fee on top of the cost of your usual treatment. As the recommendation is that the treatment is a minimum of three weekly session, clients are asked to agree to these charges. Please call the practice for further information on prices.
*Anyone new to the practice that requests shockwave therapy treatment, will need an initial consultation with one of our team so that we can fully assess your problem to ascertain whether it is the most advisable course of action.
FAQs
How many sessions of Shockwave Therapy are needed and how long does it take?
Initially three sessions are required, although it may go to six if indicated. You will require a full assessment to determine the number of treatments you will need.
What is the success rate for Shockwave Therapy treatment?
This depends on the condition being treated. The success rate ranges from 60% to 80% in epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff tendinitis, trocanteritis, Achilles and patella tendinopathies. Documented international results show an overall result rate of 77% of chronic conditions that have not been cured with other kinds of treatment. A review at 12 weeks is recommended following your final treatment. It can take several months before the maximal effect is achieved as this is the timeframe that the body needs to respond to the treatment.
What type of injuries can Shockwave Therapy treat – old/persistent injuries, or is it only for new problems?
The evidence shows that Shockwave Therapy is beneficial with chronic or persistent problems but we have found it to be effective with more acute problems too.
Is Shockwave Therapy ESWT painful?
The treatment may be a bit painful, but most people can tolerate this for the few minutes that the treatment lasts. If you are in pain, please tell your therapist, as there are adjustments that can be made. Shockwave Therapy creates an analgesic effect, many patients report an immediate relief following shockwave therapy from the pain caused by their chronic conditions.
Will there be pain after the Shockwave Therapy treatment?
Normally patients experience a reduced level of pain in their condition or no pain at all immediately after the treatment, but a mild and diffuse pain may occur a few hours later. This dull pain will subside after a day or so.
Will it be painful after the Shockwave Therapy treatment?
Shockwave therapy treatment initiates a pro-flammatory response in the tissue that is being treated. If necessary, patients may use ordinary prescription-free pain killers. Do not use anti-inflammatory medication or apply ice on the treated area as both may interfere with the body’s self-healing process.
Do I need to avoid anything after the treatment?
It is strongly recommended that you refrain from intensive activities that stress the treated area for the next 48 hours after each session.
Please contact us on 01274 565 669 or email office@bingleyphysio.com to speak to one of out team about the treatment.
We also now offer vouchers for all of our services. So if you want to give someone the gift of treatment contact us or call in to our practice to enquire about our vouchers.
