Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

What is ESWT?

ESWT is a series of acoustic shockwaves given to an area of painful or affected tissue. It is a non-invasive treatment modality that produces a response in the tissue to increase healing and metabolism.

How does ESWT work?

Through the means of mechanical waves targeted tissue us influenced in a manner that helps speed up the healing process by promoting recovery and remodelling of damages/dysfunctional tissue.

What conditions can ESWT help?

  • Shockwave Therapy can be used to treat chronic tendon inflammation, such as, patellar tendinitis, Achilles tendinitis, rotator cuff tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, medial/lateral epicondylitis (tennis/golfer’s elbow).
  • Calcium build up in tendons (calcific tendinopathy)
  • Myofascial trigger points
  • Bursitis (sub-trochanteric bursitis)
  • Periostitis (Shin-Splints)
  • Heel spurs
  • Chronic muscular injuries 

What are the potential benefits of ESWT?

  • Stimulation of the body’s healing process
  • Can have an immediate reduction in pain
  • Along with an adequate rehabilitation programme can lead to a reduction of chronic symptoms

ESWT treatment description

  • We use the Chatanooga Intelect RPW2
  • Treatment will last no longer than 15 minutes
  • 3-5 treatment sessions are recommended to achieve maximal outcomes. It is recommended that these are performed once weekly apart. Adherence to a Chartered Physiotherapist led rehabilitation programme is necessary as part of the treatment protocol.
  • The painful area is located through palpation. A water based gel is then applied to the treatment area to improve shockwave transmission. The treatment is delivered through a handheld device.
  • Treatment can be painful but using the VAS system of pain as per the patient treatment frequency can be adjusted appropriately.

How to prepare for the treatment

  • Do not use pain relief prior to the treatment session
  • Do not use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication 48 hours prior to the treatment session
  • Inform the practice if you have had a steroid injection to the same are in the last 3 months

Reasons to not have ESWT

  • If you are pregnant
  • If you have had a steroid injection in the last 3 months
  • If you have an infection, wound or tissue problems in/around the area to be treated
  • If you are under 18
  • If you are taking Anti-platelets/anticoagulants
  • If you have a blood clotting disorder or are engaged in treatment that results in a change in blood clotting behaviour
  • If you have poor sensation (neuropathy) or if you have hypersensitivity in the target area

Consent

Pain may be experienced during treatment and for a short period after treatment. Possible side effects to ESWT may include bruising, redness or swelling. For this reason when you are suited to Shockwave as a treatment modality it is important that you consent fully to the treatment session.

By signing the consent form that you will be given prior to your treatment session you consent that you understand and accept the risks and benefits of Shockwave Therapy.