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Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?

Shockwave therapy is an evidence-based procedure that uses high-energy sound-waves passed through the skin to an injured tendon.  Shockwaves have been used in medicine for some time to break down kidney stones but more recently in musculoskeletal medicine it is being used to stimulate the metabolism and circulation to chronically damaged tissue that has failed to heal naturally.

Will shockwave therapy help me?

Most chronic tendon problems throughout the body benefit from shockwave therapy.

  • Plantar fasciitis/heel-pain

  • Achilles Tendinopathy

  • Patella Tendinopathy

  • Hamstring and Gluteal Tendinopathy

  • Tennis Elbow & Golfers Elbow

  • Shoulder/Rotator Cuff Tendinopathies including Calcific Tendinitis

Halton Physiotherapy Shockwave

What are the benefits of shockwave therapy?

60-80% of patients report significant improvement in their symptoms after just 3 sessions of treatment and can be a real game changer in managing stubborn painful chronic soft tissue injuries.  Up to 80% of cases get lasting relief from symptoms, avoiding the need for invasive surgery or prolonged episodes of pain and disability.

How many treatments will I require?

You will usually need a course of 3-5 treatments. Treatments will usually take place 7-10 days apart and it is important to complete the course of treatment to ensure you get the maximum benefit.

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What does shockwave therapy treatment involve?

You will be asked to lie down on a plinth in a comfortable position. The therapist applies gel to the treatment head and places it over the area to be treated. The hand piece delivers compressed air pulses through the gel and towards the target tissue. The treatment will last for approximately 10-15 minutes depending on the injury and area.  To get the maximum benefit from ESWT your physiotherapist will also address any other restrictions or weaknesses that are likely to have caused the injury.  It is therefore likely you will also be given an appropriate customised exercise programme to enhance your recovery and prevent the injury reoccurring. 

What happens following ESWT?

You will be able to get up, leave the clinic and return to your normal activities immediately following the session. If you are experiencing an increase in pain, take some over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, but not an anti-inflammatories. Refrain for high-intensity or aggravating activities for the first 48 hours. Your physiotherapist will advise you on when is best to resume physical activities and sport.

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What machine do you use?

Our Physiotherapists use the Gymna Shockmaster 500 machine which is one of the best machines (and expensive!) on the market that delivers consistent reliable shocks using an air compressor mechanism.

Shockwave for plantarfascia
Shockwave for achilles

How much does it cost?

We offer competitively priced ESWT treatment as a single treatment or a value package of 5 treatments.

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Will my insurance cover shockwave therapy?

Health Insurance companies often cover some sessions of ESWT. Contact them directly for more information and to get a pre-authorisation code for treatment.

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How can I be referred?

We accept self-referrals, referrals from Physiotherapists, Podiatrists, Consultants and GP's.

 

For further information or to book an appointment, please contact us or call 01296 622007

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