What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy has proven to be effective in reducing pain and improving movement. Here’s a simple breakdown of its benefits:

• Pain relief and better movement:
  Studies show that many patients feel less pain and can move better soon after shockwave treatment. For example, pain levels dropped significantly for those with conditions like elbow tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis (heel pain), and rotator cuff tendinopathy.
• Long-lasting results:
  The benefits of shockwave therapy can last a long period of time. Improvements can last up to a year for conditions like plantar fasciitis.
• Helps heal tissues:
  Shockwave therapy boosts blood flow and cell growth, which helps damaged tissues heal faster.
• Non-surgical and quick recovery:
  This treatment doesn’t involve surgery, so recovery is quick. Most people only experience mild soreness afterwards.

The effectiveness of shockwave therapy depends on the severity of the condition, overall health, and adherence to the treatment plan. It has shown to be helpful for various types of pain and injuries, offering a non-surgical relief option.

Shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated by most patients. Here are some points to understand about the experience:

• Initial sensation:
  Patients might feel mild to moderate discomfort during the shockwave application due to the impact on the affected tissues.
• Pain intensity:
  The level of discomfort varies depending on the treatment area and the individual’s pain threshold. For some, it may feel like a deep massage.
• Post-treatment effects:
  After the session, it’s common to experience mild tenderness or swelling. This is a normal response and usually subsides within a few days.
• Managing discomfort:
  If pain occurs during the procedure, communicate with your physiotherapist. They can adjust the intensity to make you more comfortable.

Discomfort can include a feeling of tingling or warmth due to the acoustic waves impacting the muscle tissue. Patients undergoing shockwave treatment for hip pain or joint pain often report these sensations.

Shockwave therapy aims to decrease pain and promote healing by targeting painful tissues and influencing soft tissues. Despite the temporary discomfort, the overall goal is significantly reduced pain and improved recovery time.

Shockwave treatment sessions are generally quick and efficient. Here’s what you can expect:

• Duration:
  Each session can last 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the treatment area and the specific condition.
• Frequency:
  Most patients require multiple sessions, usually spaced one week apart. A common treatment plan involves three to five sessions.
• Procedure time:
  The actual application of shockwave technology takes only a few minutes. The rest of the session may include preparation and aftercare.

During the session, the physiotherapist will use a handheld probe to deliver acoustic waves to the affected area. These waves create effects in tissues that help with pain relief and healing.

Shockwave therapy sessions are designed to be brief yet effective, allowing for quick treatment and minimal disruption to daily life.

Shockwave technology promotes natural tissue regeneration, helping with the healing process. After shockwave therapy, most patients can resume their normal activities immediately. However, some minor effects may occur.

You can return to your daily routine straight after the session. Some patients might experience mild discomfort or tenderness in the affected area. Slight swelling or bruising is also possible, but these usually subside quickly.

It’s generally safe to continue with light physical activities but avoid intense exercises for a few days. The recovery period after shockwave treatment is brief, and localised discomfort is usually mild and temporary. This allows for a quick return to normal life. For a smooth recovery, follow any specific instructions given by your physiotherapist.

With the many uses of shockwave therapy, it is generally considered a safe procedure. However, like any treatment, it can have some side effects and potential complications. Here are some common ones and how to manage them:

1. Pain at the treatment site:
   Some patients may experience pain during or after the session. This is usually mild and temporary. You can manage this with over-the-counter pain relief medication. Resting the area can also help ease discomfort.
2. Skin redness or bruising:
   Redness or bruising may occur in the affected site. Applying a cold compress for 15-20 minutes several times daily can reduce these effects. If you notice redness on your heel after addressing plantar fasciitis, use an ice pack to soothe the area.
3. Swelling:
   Swelling might happen around the treatment site. Elevate the affected area and use a cold compress to help reduce swelling. If your elbow swells after a session, keep it elevated and apply ice.
4. Numbness or tingling:
   Numbness or tingling can occur, but these sensations usually subside quickly. Gentle massage and avoiding strenuous activities can help. For instance, if your shoulder feels numb, gently massage the area and avoid heavy lifting.
5. Headaches or migraines:
   Some patients might experience headaches rarely. Staying hydrated and resting in a dark, quiet room can help. If headaches persist, consult your physiotherapist for advice.
6. Haematoma formation:
   A small blood clot or haematoma may sometimes form under the skin. Applying a cold compress can reduce the risk of further swelling. If you develop a haematoma on your thigh, avoid strenuous activities and keep the area cool.

Knowing the possible side effects and management options, as your physiotherapist recommends, can lead to a smoother recovery after shockwave therapy.