Radial Shockwave therapy is a procedure where shock waves are passed through the skin using a special device. Extracorporeal means outside of the body. The shockwaves are mechanical and not electric. They are audible, low-energy sound waves, which work by increasing blood flow to the injured area. This speeds up your body's healing process.
Documented international results show an overall result rate of 77% of chronic conditions that have not been cured with other kinds of treatment. Other benefits include
Side effects are rare, however you may experience mild discomfort/reddening of the skin or bruising in the area for a short time.
Shockwave therapy can be effective on a wide range of
soft tissue and bony conditions. Here are some
examples of conditions where shockwave has
effectively treated and restored normal function:
Approximately 1500 to 2000 shocks are administered per treatment area (the duration of which is approximately 5-10 minutes). Some patients and/or conditions require more shocks and duration, depending on severity and chronicity (how long the condition or injury has existed).
Normally three to five treatments are necessary at weekly intervals; there is a small possibility that 2 or more additional treatments may be necessary if your condition is very chronic.
Sometimes the treatment is uncomfortable or a bit painful, but most people are able to easily tolerate it. When the treatment starts it will feel like someone is tapping / pinching firmly on the site being treated. If this becomes too uncomfortable you should notify your physiotherapist as the intensity of treatment can be reduced however, having some pain during the treatment illustrates that shockwaves are having a positive effect.
You will normally experience a reduced level of pain or no pain at all immediately after the treatment, but a dull and diffuse pain may occur a few hours later. This dull pain can last for a day or so and in rare cases a little bit longer.
The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response which is the body's natural process of healing. For this reason, do not use anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) or ice therapy, as these can interfere with the body's healing process. The pain should subside within 24 hours. Use Paracetamol if necessary, provided you have no trouble with this medication.
You will be able to return to your usual activities straight away and can return to work immediately. However we advise you not to undertake any strenuous, pain-provoking activity or high-impact exercise for 48 hours following the procedure, even if there is no pain.
Yes. Contraindications include:
