Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses shockwaves to promote healing and reduce pain in various musculoskeletal conditions.
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) or Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT), is a modern, evidence-based treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing response.
By delivering high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area, shockwave therapy enhances blood flow, promotes tissue regeneration, and reduces chronic inflammation. It is widely used in podiatry to relieve heel pain, Achilles Tendinopathy, and other chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
What to Expect
Wondering what happens during a shockwave therapy session? Here’s what you can expect from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and effective treatment experience.
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Initial Consultation: Our podiatrists will conduct a thorough examination and develop a treatment plan.
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Treatment Process: A handheld device delivers controlled radial shockwaves to the targeted area. Sessions typically last 10-15 minutes.
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Post-Treatment: Patients experience minimal side effects and can resume daily activities immediately.
How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
During a shockwave therapy session, a handheld device delivers controlled radial pressure waves to the treated area. These waves:
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Stimulate blood flow and encourage new blood vessel formation.
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Break down calcium deposits and scar tissue, aiding in tissue repair.
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Trigger the body’s natural healing process, accelerating recovery.
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Reduce pain and inflammation, offering immediate relief.​​
Many patients notice immediate pain relief after their session, while others experience gradual improvement over just a few sessions.
Is Shockwave for Me?
Shockwave therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment option for individuals experiencing chronic musculoskeletal conditions, heel pain, and Achilles tendinopathy. If you’re considering this therapy, our experienced podiatrists will assess your condition and create a personalised program tailored to your recovery needs.
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Shockwave is contraindicated in;
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Pregnancy
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Recent corticosteroid injection
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Individuals with blood clotting disorders
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Individuals on anticoagulant medication
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Those with tumours, current infection, neuropathy, nerve damage or hypersensitivity in the affected area
What Does Shockwave Therapy Treat?
Shockwave Therapy is an effective, non-invasive alternative to surgical interventions for treating various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
Plantar Fasciopathy
Plantar Fasciopathy, also known as Plantar Fasciitis is a leading cause of heel pain. Shockwave therapy for plantar fasciopathy targets the inflamed plantar fascia, reducing pain and accelerating the healing process.
Achilles and Other Tendonopathies
Shockwave therapy for Achilles tendonopathy, peroneal tendonopathy, posterior tibial tendonopathy, and extensor tendonopathy effectively reduces chronic inflammation and accelerates tissue repair, promoting faster recovery for various tendon conditions.
Heel Spurs
Foot shockwave therapy aids in the breakdown of osteophytes (bone spurs), relieving heel pain and improving foot function.