What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a treatment modality that creates low energy acoustic wave pulsations that are directed into the body for the treatment of chronic bony or soft tissue injuries. It has the ability to restore degenerative tissue and facilitates the breakdown of scar tissue. Originally designed and used to breakdown kidney and gallstones, it has since been found to be profoundly useful in the treatment of a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries.
At Pro Motion Physiotherapy, shockwave therapy is not used as a stand-alone solution. We first assess what may be contributing to your symptoms and determine whether shockwave is an appropriate option for your condition.
When Might Shockwave Therapy Be Considered?
It is most often used for persistent problems that have not settled with time and rehabilitation alone.
Shockwave therapy is commonly considered for certain tendon and soft-tissue conditions, including problems involving the Achilles tendon, plantar fascia and other tendons. Whether it is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, how long the problem has been present and what other treatment has already been tried.
What to Expect
Treatment is targeted to the area identified during your assessment.
A handheld device is placed over the treatment area and delivers a series of acoustic pulses through the skin that feel like a little hammer tapping on the skin surface. Treatment settings and the number of sessions vary depending on the condition and the type of shockwave being used. Some people find the treatment uncomfortable, but it is usually brief.
Part of a Broader Rehabilitation Plan
The goal is not just to treat the painful area, but to address the factors contributing to the problem.
Depending on your condition, shockwave therapy may be combined with exercise, progressive loading, mobility work, education and other physiotherapy treatments.
Our focus is on choosing the right combination of treatments for you rather than relying on one technique alone.
Could Shockwave Therapy Be Right for You?
Start with a physiotherapy assessment.
If you have a persistent tendon or soft-tissue problem that is limiting your activity, our physiotherapists can assess whether shockwave therapy may be appropriate as part of your treatment plan.
