​Shockwave is a non-invasive therapy that promotes the body's natural healing processes. We use a handheld device to deliver ultrasound energy directly to the painful area, which creates microtrauma. The microtrauma increases blood flow and triggers an inflammatory response that aids in healing. Shockwave is valued for its non-invasive nature, ability to accelerate the body's natural healing process, and minimal downtime. Shockwave can help relieve pain and promote the healing process of injured ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissue by promoting blood flow, which stimulates the rehabilitation process in the area. These benefits allow athletes to return to training and competition sooner than they would with surgical alternatives. It is often used in combination with osteopathy, physical therapy, and rehabilitation programs. This approach is an effective treatment modality for complaints related to the heel, foot, ankle, and knee.
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The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends shockwave therapy, and it is widely utilised in the sports world, including by organisations such as the Welsh Rugby Union and Premier League football clubs.
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All of our osteopaths have received training from senior physiotherapists at Venn Healthcare to provide shockwave therapy effectively.
Effectiveness
Shockwave Therapy is clinically proven to work and is used by the top orthopaedic hospitals, professional athletes, the English Institute of Sport and the NHS. The success rates for treatment outcomes vary depending on the condition being treated. Studies have shown 90% of patient Achilles tendon issues experience either a full recovery or a significant reduction in their symptoms within 6-8 weeks of treatment. Shockwave therapy has been recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).
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Does it hurt?
Shockwave can be mildly uncomfortable or feel slightly prickly over some areas. Many patients report pain relief following the treatment due to the analgesic effect of shockwave therapy. The most important thing to note is not to use anti-inflammatory medication or ibuprofen, ice-packs post-treatment as this may alter the body’s self-healing process.
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​Conditions treated
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Achilles Tendonitis
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Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
- Mortons neuroma
- Bursitis (Greater trochanteric, subacromial shoulders, hips and knees)
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Patellar Tendonitis
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Epicondylitis (Golfers or Tennis Elbow)
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Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin splints)
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Shoulder Pain
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Back Pain
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Contraindication
Whilst Shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for most people. Please contact your clinician if you have any of the following:
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If you are taking Warfarin or any other anti-coagulant drugs
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If you are under the age of 18
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You have a pacemaker
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You are pregnant or trying for a baby
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You have cancer
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You have a skin infection
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You have a circulatory problem or nerve disorder
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Steroid injection in the last six weeks
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