Extra Corporeal Shock Wave Therapy involves the application of high energy radial shockwaves administered via a handpiece to the affected area.
This treatment initiates an inflammation-type reaction which increases the local blood circulation and metabolism which can accelerate the body’s own healing process. The shock wave treatment also helps to break down injured tissue and calcification.
There is high level evidence that ECSWT is beneficial in pain reduction for:
Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy
Tennis elbow
Trochanteric bursitis (lateral hip pain)
Achilles tendinopathy
Plantar fasciitis
It is often indicated after mainstream treatment (general physiotherapy and conservative management program, cortisone injections) has failed to improve the injury over a three to six month period. Typically treatment protocols involve threee sessions over three to six weeks, accompanied with an exercise program. Most patients will experience an improvement in their symptoms almost immediately; however some conditions may take several weeks before you notice the benefits of ECSWT.