What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that utilises high-energy sound waves to stimulate the healing process in various conditions. It was initially developed to break down kidney stones without surgery, but it has since found applications in several other medical fields, particularly orthopaedics, sports medicine, and rehabilitation.
During shockwave therapy, a handheld device delivers controlled mechanical or acoustic pulses to the affected area of the body. These pulses create a mechanical force that travels through the tissues, promoting tissue regeneration and pain relief. The intensity, frequency, and duration of the shockwaves can be adjusted depending on the specific condition being treated.
How does it work?
The exact mechanism of how shockwave therapy works is not fully understood, but it is believed to have several effects on the body. These effects include:
- Promoting blood vessel formation: Shockwave therapy stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, improving blood circulation in the treated area. This increased blood flow can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues, promoting healing.
- Breaking down calcifications: Shockwaves can disrupt and break down calcified deposits, such as calcium build-up in tendons or other soft tissues. This can be beneficial in conditions like plantar fasciitis and chronic tendon injury.
- Stimulating collagen production: Shockwave therapy stimulates the production of collagen, a protein essential for tissue repair and regeneration. This effect can be particularly helpful in treating chronic tendon injury.
- Pain reduction: Shockwaves can interfere with pain signals, thereby reducing pain sensation in the treated area. This pain-relieving effect may be due to the stimulation of nerve fibers that inhibit pain transmission or the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving substances.
What is it used to treat?
Shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation and microtears in the plantar fascia, causing heel pain.
- Achilles tendinopathy: Degeneration or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Tendinopathy affecting the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, typically due to repetitive strain.
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee): Tendinopathy affecting the patellar tendon below the kneecap, often seen in sports involving jumping.
- Shoulder tendinopathies: Conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy or calcific tendonitis affecting the shoulder tendons.
- Hip pain: Conditions like gluteal tendinopathy causing hip pain.
Is it safe?
Shockwave therapy is generally considered safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if shockwave therapy is appropriate for your specific condition.