Non-invasive Therapy For Soft Tissue Discomfort
Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT), also known as shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive form of electrotherapy designed to assist patients suffering from chronic soft tissue issues by rebooting a stalled healing response.
Our team of allied health professionals in Rosanna, including osteopaths, physiotherapists and podiatrists, utilise shockwave therapy as part of a holistic treatment plan to care for injuries, pain, and acute and chronic conditions. We can provide a thorough assessment of your concerns, discuss how shockwave therapy may help you, and develop a suitable plan.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Radial shockwaves are high-energy soundwaves that, during shockwave therapy, are transmitted from a handheld probe into your body. We place the probe, which utilises a pneumatic ballistic design, against your skin at the site of the pain and the acoustic waves disperse into the deeper tissues. Shockwave therapy aims to create a response by encouraging the body’s repair process and developing a healing environment.
Various studies demonstrate the significant reduction in discomfort and improvement in mobility and functionality that shockwave therapy may provide. This simple procedure may help you avoid more invasive solutions, such as injections and surgery, and can be used in many areas of the body.
Benefits Of Shockwave Therapy
Reduced Pain
One of the main benefits of shockwave therapy is the improvement of discomfort due to a variety of causes.
Increased Blood Flow
The soundwaves enter the deep tissues in the targeted area, stimulating movement and blood flow.
Increased Blood Vessel Growth
By encouraging natural healing, shockwave therapy may increase various growth and repair processes.
Better Metabolic Activity
By improving the metabolic activity around the problematic area, the natural healing process can be encouraged and accelerated.
Reduced Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation may be reduced, which can provide substantial relief. This inflammation may be acute or even chronic.
Stimulation Of Collagen
After shockwave therapy, newly developed collagen fibres can help to create a stronger structure at the area of concern. This can be particularly useful during times of breakdown such as after an injury.
Dissolution Of Calcium Build-up
In recent years, shockwave therapy has been extended to treat issues such as calcific shoulder tendonitis by decreasing the accumulation of calcium in the area
Non-invasive
Though the soundwaves pass through your skin, there is no physical penetration. Medication, anaesthesia, or surgical procedures are not required. Alternative treatments, such as medications and surgery, may also be avoided.
Simple Treatments
Although it differs from patient to patient, shockwave therapy sessions usually last about 10-20 minutes. Typically, only a few sessions over a few weeks are required.
Shockwave Therapy FAQs
The name may make you think the treatment could be painful, however, this is not the case. The procedure itself does not hurt, largely due to the non-invasive nature of the therapy. As it works to promote the healing process, you may experience mild tenderness or heaviness in the area while the shockwave is being applied. This generally eases by the end of the therapy. The sensation of the therapy is often described as a deep, rhythmic vibration.
The number and frequency of your sessions will depend on the issue that is causing you discomfort. We will provide a thorough assessment and discuss this with you in your first consultation and provide regular progress updates to give you an idea of how many you may need. Sessions are often scheduled with one week between them.
This non-invasive form of therapy is FDA and TGA-approved, meaning it is considered safe for most people. There are some circumstances in which shockwave therapy is not recommended, such as patients who are under the age of 18, have a pacemaker, are undertaking anticoagulant therapy, have had a recent cortisone injection, or are pregnant. Shockwave therapy is not suitable for some people with medical conditions such as nerve disorders, active infections, open wounds at the affected site, and malignant tumours.
Some patients can experience tingling, numbness, or aching after a session. Minor bruising is less common but may occur in some cases.
What Can Shockwave Therapy Treat?
Shockwave therapy is an ever-expanding and developing form of treatment that is primarily used for musculoskeletal concerns. There is currently a wide range of conditions and issues that can be improved with this form of therapy. These can include the following:
- Tennis and golfer’s elbow
- Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and shin splints
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Upper and lower tendinopathies
This can include forms such as:
- Gluteal tendinopathy.
- Patella tendinopathy.
- Hamstring tendinopathy.
- Shoulder tendinopathy (especially supraspinatus).
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
- Medial tibial stress syndrome
- Adhesive capsulitis
- Bursitis
This can include forms such as:
- Gluteal Bursitis.
- Shoulder bursitis.
- Bone conditions
This can include issues such as:
- Nonunion of long bone fractures.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Avascular necrosis.
Experience The Benefits Of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy can be an advantageous choice of therapy for many people and can be a great alternative to more invasive forms of treatment or options that have not provided improvement. After a comprehensive assessment of your issue, a discussion of your health background and the history of the issue, and the development of a personalised care plan, we will begin shockwave therapy if it is suitable for you.
If you are suffering from pain, inflammation, or reduced mobility and functionality, please contact us to find out how our team can help you.
