Shockwave therapy (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) – don’t be alarmed by the name!
Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective form of treatment for all stages of muscle injury and tightness. All of our health professionals at Boost Health are trained to use this as part of your treatment, and there are a number of studies outlining the benefits of shockwave as part of a rehabilitation plan.
Shockwave works by using pressurised air directed to the muscles, creating a biological response and promoting a tissue repairing effect. Shockwave therapy is most effective when used in combination with a stretching and strengthening program targeting the injured or weakened area, and it should always be used as part of a carefully designed treatment plan.
The benefits of shockwave include enhanced neovascularisation with the formation of new capillaries, encouragement of tissue repair and regeneration, pain relief, release of trigger points and muscle tightness, and the fact that it is non invasive. The number of sessions recommended can vary; however, most people complete 4-5 shockwave sessions spaced 4-7 days apart. Each treatment typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes of your consultation.
You may experience mild discomfort or tightness afterwards, but most patients report feeling better within a day or two. In addition to shockwave, a personalised strengthening and mobility program is recommended between consults to help you achieve the best possible results. Everyone responds differently to shockwave therapy, each patient has varying tolerances to pain. Most people describe it as mild discomfort that improves throughout the session. It is not uncommon to feel tender for 24-48 hours post treatment, although some people do not feel sore at all.
Common injuries that can be treated with shockwave include:
- plantar fasciitis
- plantar heel pain
- achilles tendinopathy
- muscle strains or tears
- neuromas
- bursitis
- shin splints
- tennis elbow
- rotator cuff injuries
- hip tendinopathy
- knee pain
If you would like to learn more about how our Podiatrist’s can assist you with shockwave therapy, please get in touch and we would be happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Let’s get you back to being active and happy!
