Radial Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Healing
Radial Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to promote healing in musculoskeletal conditions. Delivered through a specialized handpiece, this therapy targets tissues like tendons, ligaments, and muscles, providing effective relief for a variety of musculoskeletal disorders.
Conditions Treated by Radial Shockwave Therapy
Radial Shockwave Therapy is proven to be effective for treating a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including:
Tendinitis, Tendinopathy, and Tendon Tears
Ligament Injuries
Delayed Bone Healing (Non or delayed union of the bone)
Chronic Bone Disorders (such as Osteitis Pubis and Stress Fractures)
Originally developed for kidney stone treatment, shockwave therapy was later found to have a beneficial impact on soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments, making it an ideal solution for a variety of musculoskeletal issues.
Plantar Fasciitis
Patella Tendinopathy and Tears
Hamstring Tendinopathy and Tears
Achilles Tendinopathy
Calcific Bursitis or Calcific tendinopathy (Shoulder)
Rotator Cuff Disorders
Trochanteric Bursitis and Gluteal Tendinopathy
Tennis and Golfers elbow
How Radial Shockwave Therapy Works:
Radial Shockwave Therapy uses high-energy pressure waves that are transmitted to the affected area of the body. While the exact mechanism is still being studied, it is believed that these pressure waves stimulate the release of substance P, a chemical involved in the pain process. This overload of substance P essentially "blocks" the pain signals, providing rapid pain relief and allowing patients to perform activities that would typically cause discomfort.
What to Expect During Treatment:
Treatment Duration: Each session typically lasts between 10-15 minutes.
Treatment Frequency: Most patients require 3-5 sessions, with noticeable pain relief often occurring after the first session. Pain reduction continues with subsequent treatments.
Discomfort Level: While the treatment is generally well-tolerated, mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure is common (the evidence suggest 4-5/10 for the best results)
Rehabilitation: To achieve optimal results, Radial Shockwave Therapy should be combined with a personalized rehabilitation program, including strengthening exercises, guided by a physiotherapist or tendon rehabilitation specialist.
Benefits of Radial Shockwave Therapy:
Quick Pain Relief: Many patients experience immediate relief after their first session, with long-term improvements observed by the third treatment.
Non-Invasive: As a non-surgical alternative, this therapy requires no downtime, making it a safe option for many patients.
Comprehensive Treatment: Radial Shockwave Therapy is often most effective when combined with other rehabilitation techniques, ensuring lasting recovery and pain relief.