WHAT IS SHOCKWAVE THERAPY?

Shockwave Therapy is a treatment whereby a handheld probe is positioned over and moved around, the base of the heel/arch of the foot or Achilles Tendon at the back of the heel. The probe delivers very high-energy acoustic sound waves which expand as they travel inside the foot. These sound waves stimulate tissue regeneration, increase blood flow to the affected area and break down scar tissue. The process accelerates healing. This ultrasonic treatment is generally used in addition to other treatments to offer a long-term solution to plantar fasciitis.

Extra-Corporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy

What is Extra-Corporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy?

Extra-Corporeal radial Shockwave Therapy is a series of high-energy percussions to the affected area. The shockwave

is a physical sound wave “shock”, not an electric one.

How does it work?

1. Treatment produces an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around

the site of pain. This stimulates and accelerates the healing process (promotes the remodelling of

dysfunctional collagenous tissues, such as tendinopathies, trigger points, muscle strains, etc.)

2. Shockwaves break down scar tissue and/or calcification

3. Transmission of pain is diminished through neurological mechanisms (inhibition of nociceptors)

What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?

This therapy stimulates the body's natural self-healing process. There is an immediate reduction of pain and

improved range of motion. ESWT may also eliminate your need for surgery.

How long does the treatment last?

Approximately 2000 shocks are administered per treatment area (the duration of which is approximately 5 minutes).

Some patients and/or conditions require more shocks and duration, depending on severity and chronicity (how long

the condition or injury has existed).

How many treatments will I need?

Normally three to five treatments are necessary at weekly intervals; there is a small possibility that 2 or more additional treatments may be necessary if your condition is very chronic. Should you not respond in this time, your

case will be reviewed with the doctor to determine an appropriate referral. Success rates with ESWT are unparalleled (over 80=90% improvement).

Does the treatment hurt?

It is a short treatment (usually five to twenty minutes) that may be uncomfortable. However, most people can easily

tolerate it. However, if you cannot tolerate it, adjustments on the machine can decrease the pressure you feel.

Will it hurt after the treatment?

There may or may not be immediate pain, but some discomfort may be experienced 2-4 hours after the treatment.

In some cases, it can last up to 48 hours and in very rare cases, the pain lasted up to 5 days. Some bruising and

swelling can occur.

What should I do if I am in pain after the treatment?

The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body's natural process of healing. For this reason,

do not use anti-inflammatory medications. Do not use ice. The pain should subside within 24 hours. Use Panadol if

necessary, provided you have no trouble with this medication.

What if it feels good after the treatment?

Even if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hours following the treatment.

What is the success rate of this treatment?

A successful treatment is considered as a patient having at least 75% reduction in pain within 3 months. Worldwide,

success rates are around 80 to 90%.

What if it doesn’t work for me?

Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3-4

months. If after this time there has not been any marked improvement, you should see your doctor for further

treatment options.