Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive physiotherapy treatment that uses acoustic wave energy to stimulate biological responses in targeted tissues. It is commonly used as part of rehabilitation for certain musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those involving chronic tendon and soft-tissue problems.
Shockwaves are delivered to the affected area to stimulate local tissue responses and support the body’s natural healing processes. The treatment may help improve local circulation, promote tissue remodeling, and reduce pain and other symptoms associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions.
Shockwave therapy is commonly used for conditions involving tendons and fascia, including plantar fasciitis and some forms of calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy may be considered as part of a physiotherapy treatment plan for a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis, commonly known as heel pain or “heel spurs”
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Certain shoulder tendon conditions, including calcific tendinopathy
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Chronic low back pain in selected cases
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome and related conditions affecting the tissues around the hip
- Stress fractures in selected cases
- Joint stiffness, including some cases of frozen shoulder
- Patellar tendinopathy
The suitability of shockwave therapy depends on the underlying condition, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. A physiotherapist should assess the patient before determining whether this treatment is appropriate.
Why Choose Shockwave Therapy at Greenbell?
At Greenbell Medical Clinic, we use LiKAMED shockwave technology from Germany as part of our physiotherapy treatment approach.
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic energy to target specific areas associated with musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It may be used to support the management of conditions involving muscles, tendons, fascia, and joints.
The LiKAMED system features WIDE FOCUS technology, which is designed to deliver focused acoustic energy to the targeted treatment area. This allows the physiotherapist to adjust the treatment according to the location and characteristics of the affected tissue.
The system also features an Invert Mode, which allows treatment parameters such as frequency and pressure to be adjusted according to the patient’s condition and treatment goals. Treatment intensity can also be controlled to provide an appropriate level of stimulation during the session.
Treatment parameters are individualized based on the patient’s symptoms, clinical assessment, and tolerance.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is performed according to an individualized treatment plan. Before treatment begins, the physiotherapist assesses the affected area and prepares the treatment site.
1. Preparing the Treatment Area
The treatment area is prepared before the session. The skin may be cleaned, and an appropriate coupling medium may be applied to help transmit the acoustic waves effectively between the applicator and the skin.
2. Adjusting the Treatment Intensity
The physiotherapist adjusts the shockwave parameters according to the patient’s condition, treatment area, and tolerance.
Treatment intensity may be gradually adjusted during the session to ensure that the treatment remains within an appropriate and tolerable range. Some patients may experience mild discomfort during treatment, particularly when treating sensitive or inflamed tissues.
3. Number of Treatment Sessions
The number of shockwave therapy sessions required varies from person to person. It depends on factors such as the underlying condition, symptom severity, duration of symptoms, and response to treatment.
After assessment, the physiotherapist will develop an individualized treatment plan and determine the appropriate treatment frequency and number of sessions.
Shockwave therapy is generally used as part of a broader physiotherapy program and may be combined with therapeutic exercise, stretching, manual therapy, and other rehabilitation techniques when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy
Does Shockwave Therapy Hurt?
Shockwave therapy may cause mild to moderate discomfort during treatment, particularly when the applicator is applied to a sensitive or painful area. The treatment intensity can usually be adjusted according to the patient’s tolerance and clinical condition.
How Long Does a Shockwave Therapy Session Take?
A shockwave therapy session typically takes several minutes, although the total appointment time may vary depending on the treatment area, condition, and other physiotherapy interventions included in the session.
How Many Shockwave Therapy Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions varies depending on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. Some conditions may require several sessions, while others may require a different treatment approach. A physiotherapist will determine the appropriate treatment schedule following an assessment.
What Should I Expect After Shockwave Therapy?
Some patients may experience temporary soreness, tenderness, or mild discomfort after treatment. These symptoms generally settle over time. Patients should follow the physiotherapist’s recommendations regarding activity and exercise after treatment.
Is Shockwave Therapy the Same as Ultrasound Therapy?
No. Although both treatments use acoustic energy, they use different types of waves and treatment parameters.
Shockwave therapy delivers relatively high-energy acoustic pulses and is commonly used for selected chronic tendon and soft-tissue conditions. Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves and is generally used to produce thermal or mechanical effects in targeted tissues.
The appropriate treatment depends on the patient’s condition and rehabilitation goals.
