Radial Shockwave Therapy is an effective non-invasive treatment that promotes healing and reduces pain in a number of sports and musculoskeletal conditions. Much of the research into shockwave therapy surrounds its use to treat kidney stones – lithotripsy. Today, while over 98% of all kidney stones are treated with this technology, it has become increasingly useful for a wide range of sports and musculoskeletal injuries.
If you’ve ever struggled with a sports injury or dealt with an ache that just wouldn’t mend, your body might have benefited from extra help during the healing process. Shockwave therapy can offer such help, jump-starting the body’s ability to regenerate new tissue. It also decreases your pain by directly stimulating your nerves at the site of the injury. Though the name of the treatment makes it sound painful, it’s only mildly uncomfortable for most people.
It’s often prescribed as a treatment for patients who have sports injuries like a golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow. It’s also administered to patients who experience pain in their soft tissues, such as that caused by plantar fasciitis — a painful condition that affects the heels of the feet.
It works by delivering high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area, typically via a handheld device. These shockwaves stimulate cellular repair, enhance blood circulation, and help to accelerate the healing process by breaking down scar tissue and calcifications.
The energy from the shockwaves can jump-start the body’s natural healing mechanisms, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation. As a result, patients often experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in function. Shockwave therapy is particularly effective for chronic tendon issues, such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and tennis elbow, among others.
Most injuries respond to three sessions of shockwave therapy.
The experience of undergoing shockwave therapy can vary from person to person. Some patients report feeling a mild discomfort or a sensation akin to being “snapped” with a rubber band during the treatment. The level of discomfort may also depend on the specific area being treated and the severity of the condition. Usually, the intensity of the shockwaves can be adjusted to keep the discomfort at a manageable level.
It’s worth noting that any discomfort usually subsides shortly after the treatment session is completed. Most people are able to resume their regular activities almost immediately.
However, it’s essential to discuss your pain tolerance and any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider prior to undergoing the treatment. This enables them to adjust the therapy settings accordingly and ensures that you’re comfortable throughout the process.
Each session is £110.
Indepentently rated
Chris Bestwick
Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Alessandro Poletto
Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
Liam McCloskey
Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
David Wynne
Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
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