Shockwave therapy (also known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) ) is a non-invasive therapy that stimulates the body’s natural healing process. It can relieve and promote healing of injured tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues as well as difficult-to-heal ligament injuries. It accomplishes this by releasing growth factors in the injured tissue. Some degenerative tendinopathies have an associated build up of calcium in the tendon. Focused shockwaves can help break these deposits up.

The majority of patients who use this treatment have enjoyed the results. In clinical studies, about 91% of patients reported successful results, including a decrease of pain and increased mobility.

Does shockwave reduce inflammation?

Shockwave therapy can help reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. By decreasing the release of inflammatory mediators from cells in the treated area. The sound waves cause tiny vibrations in the tissue, which help to break up the inflammatory cells and promote healing.What kind of sports injuries can be treated with shockwave therapy?

• Foot pain: plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathies

• Knee pain: patella tendinopathy

• Leg pain: hamstring and calf injuries

• Hip pain: rectus femoral and lateral hip pain with tendinopathies

• Elbow pain: tennis and golfer’s elbow

• Shoulder pain: rotator cuff injuries

Is shockwave painful?

Most patients report some discomfort during the therapy, but most do not find it painful. Treatments closer to a bony area can feel more sensitive. As soon as the treatment is over the discomfort generally drops.

There may be some slight swelling or bruising within 24 hours of the therapy, but this tends to subside pretty quickly.