Shockwave therapy is a highly effective and fast-acting solution for relieving pain caused by common muscle and tendon injuries. This non-invasive and drug-free treatment option reduces pain in soft tissue injuries and has been proven more effective than traditional three-month rehabilitation programs.

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Specifically, shockwave therapy is particularly beneficial for conditions such as plantar fasciitis and tennis/golfer's elbow. It provides immediate pain relief and stimulates tendon repair by promoting the growth of new blood vessels, activating growth factors, increasing cell proliferation, reducing inflammation, and mobilising stem cells.

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If you're wondering why you need shockwave therapy, it's because tendon injuries can be challenging to treat and often require lengthy recovery periods, with some cases never fully healing. While standard treatments like acupuncture, manual therapy, soft tissue release, stretches, taping/bracing, and strengthening programs are commonly recommended, shockwave therapy offers a conservative option that accelerates tendon healing. In fact, research suggests that shockwave therapy can even outperform three months of traditional rehabilitation.

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The remarkable effectiveness of shockwave therapy is evident, with up to 92% of patients reporting significant improvement in tendon pain after completing a course of treatment.

To better understand how radial shockwave therapy reduces pain, research has drawn a comparison to capsaicin, the active component in red chilli peppers. Initially, capsaicin overwhelms the C nerve fibres responsible for transmitting pain but eventually disables them for an extended period. Many people are familiar with the fiery sensation followed by numbness experienced when consuming spicy food.

 

A similar mechanism is observed in shockwave therapy. The shockwaves activate the C nerve fibres and release substance P in the tissue and spinal cord. Substance P is responsible for causing slight discomfort during and after shockwave treatment. However, with prolonged activation, the C nerve fibres become unable to release substance P, resulting in reduced pain for a significant period. The decrease in substance P levels in the tissue leads to a decline in neurogenic inflammation. This decline can foster healing, release growth factors, and activate stem cells in the treated tissue, further promoting the recovery process.

Shockwave Therapy offers significant advantages over surgery as a treatment option. It eliminates the risks associated with infections or complications, requires no downtime, and is cost-effective.

 

A recent study conducted on patients with plantar fasciitis revealed similar outcomes between individuals who underwent surgery and those who received Shockwave Therapy. Researchers concluded that Shockwave Therapy should be considered as an initial treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis before resorting to surgery. Other studies have also reported similar findings.

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While cortisone injections (steroid glucocorticoid) are commonly used for various conditions, their effectiveness in treating tendinopathy has declined in recent years. These injections can have negative long-term effects on tendon tissue, including cell necrosis. In contrast, Shockwave Therapy has shown no detrimental side effects on tendon tissue.

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The benefits of Shockwave Therapy are numerous. It can effectively treat larger areas, requires short treatment durations per session, and often produces positive results after only a few sessions. Additionally, Shockwave Therapy offers a drug-free alternative for patients seeking to avoid medication.

Shockwave therapy is an effective method for addressing pain associated with tendinopathies and other conditions. However, it can sometimes result in discomfort or even severe pain, particularly in sensitive areas, even after treatment. This is because shockwaves cause micro-traumas and the bursting of microtissues, such as bone, tendons, and muscles, to stimulate blood flow and cell regeneration. Both the initial traumas and the healing process can contribute to the pain experienced.

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There are simple and effective methods to alleviate this pain without relying on medication. Physiotherapists should advise patients to restrict and avoid using the treated area as much as possible, allowing the muscles to rest and regenerate optimally. Applying ice can also be beneficial in the short and medium term to reduce the treatment's effects. It's important to note that direct contact with the skin can cause a cold burn, so using a waterproof material as a barrier is recommended.

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Patients can also consider using castor oil or arnica vegetable oil (preferably organic) on the treated tendon area in the morning and evening to help limit inflammation. It's worth mentioning that castor oil has a thick and greasy texture, so only a few drops are needed. Applying a thick green clay poultice directly on the painful area, covered with a bandage for around 30 minutes, can provide relief. This can be repeated several times a day as needed. Green clay can be purchased in a ready-made tube or prepared by mixing fine clay powder with water. However, pregnant women should avoid using castor or arnica oil and green clay due to contraindications.

 

Combining these methods forms a comprehensive approach for successful and comfortable treatment. It's also worth noting that prior to shockwave treatment, using a high-power laser can help patients better tolerate any discomfort caused by the therapy and can lead to improved results.

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Guided DolorClast® Therapy is a valuable tool to get patients moving and aid in their recovery.

No referral is necessary to receive shockwave therapy at our clinic. However, we do require an initial assessment by one of our qualified osteopaths to determine if shockwave therapy is the right treatment option for your condition.

Existing Patients: If you are currently receiving treatment from our team, we encourage you to discuss with your practitioner whether shockwave therapy can complement your recovery plan.

New Patients and Referrals: We welcome referrals from other healthcare professionals, including orthopaedic surgeons, podiatrists, and rheumatologists. If you have been referred by a clinician, simply ask them to arrange the referral and then book an appointment with us.

Exploring Alternative Options: In the event that shockwave therapy is not suitable for your specific case, we will work closely with you to explore alternative treatment options or recommend further investigations. If we are unable to provide the appropriate therapy, we will assist you in finding the right healthcare provider for your needs.