Originally used to treat kidney stones in the 80s, Radial Shockwave therapy has gained popularity over the last 20 years as an effective treatment for many soft tissue disorders.

Shockwave therapy has been found to be an effective treatment for conditions such as:

Tendinopathies and tendinitis – Achilles, patella tendon, etc

Tennis and golfer’s elbow

Plantar Fasciitis

Calcific tendinitis of the shoulder

Enthesopathies (such as Osgood Schlatter’s and Sever’s)

Lateral hip pain due to gluteal tendinopathy

There is also evidence that Shockwave may be beneficial for arthritic conditions as well

How does it work?

Shockwave therapy is delivered via a mechanically powered handpiece that generates shockwaves, which are transmitted into the tissues.  A single session will usually consist of between 2000-3000 pulsed shockwaves delivered over 3-5 minutes.

Usually between 3-5 sessions are required, spaced 5-10 days apart.

 

Shockwave therapy has been shown to:

Deplete substance P in the tissues via prolonged activation of C-nerve fibres (leading to an immediate analgesic effect)

Promote expression of growth factors

Reduce neurogenic inflammation leading to ongoing analgesic effect

Promote the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) while stimulating blood supply, fostering faster healing of treated tissues

Induce mechanical muscle relaxation

Improve movement of tendon gliding due to increased amounts of Lubricin

Stimulate tendon remodelling

Stimulate proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts

Stimulate proliferation of tenocytes

Stimulate Collagen synthesis

Over 80% of patients report significant improvements in their tendon pain with a course of Shockwave therapy treatment. Shockwave may be a viable, lower risk alternative to cortisone injections and surgery for certain conditions.

Your Shockwave treatment

All physiotherapy treatments start with a full assessment to determine your problems, your goals and what types of treatment are appropriate for your condition.

Shockwave therapy will generally be provided as part of a wholistic treatment and rehabilitation program. You may receive Shockwave treatment as part of your physiotherapy session, or we may also provide sessions that are for shockwave only. A treatment session will generally also include advice on how to manage your condition, rehabilitation and strengthening.

During shockwave treatment, a contact gel is applied to the injury site, where acoustic shockwaves are delivered in a controlled and focused manner via a handheld probe. The actual treatment typically lasts around 5 mins per area treated.

Shockwave therapy is particularly useful for tendon and connective tissue issues that haven’t responded well to other therapies. If you have tried rest, other therapies, and even injections to address your pains, then Shockwave may be a good option for you.

What does it cost?

**November 2023 introductory offer – $0 Shockwave surcharge for the whole month of November**

The cost of Shockwave therapy is the cost of your consultation plus a Shockwave surcharge of $63.
As your treatment will be provided by a qualified and registered physiotherapist or podiatrist, Health insurance rebates, Medicare care plans, etc can be used towards the cost of your treatment.