Shock Wave Therapy
On what parts of the body can Radial Shockwave Therapy be used?
We treat chronic tendon inflammations in the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and achilles, neck and lower back. Likewise can this treatment be applied to so-called heel spurs and other painful conditions in the foot sole.
What is the success rate for Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Documented international results show an overall result rate of 70-80% of chronic conditions that have not been cured with other kinds of treatment. 12 months after treatment success rate is still very high.
What are the advantages with Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy is applied without medication, for example Cortisone injections. The treatment stimulates and effectively supports the body’s self healing mechanisms. It is usual to experience immediate pain relief following the treatment and hence improved movement. Reported side effects are minimal.
How long does each treatment last?
It takes 5-10 minutes to administer 1500-3000 shockwaves per treatment. Usually need 3 treatments over 3 weeks. Now that the tissue is more pliable 4-12 weeks of physical therapy is recommended when possible.
Is the shockwave treatment itself painful?
Sometimes the treatment is a bit painful, but most people can stand these few intense minutes without medication. If that turns out not to be the case, it is possible to administer local anaesthetics.
Will I be in pain after the treatment?
You will normally experience a reduced level of pain or no pain at all immediately after the treatment, but a dull and diffuse pain may occur a few hours later. This dull pain can last for a day or so and in rare cases a little bit longer.
What shall I do if I am in pain after the treatment?
Radial Shockwave Treatment initiates an inflammation-like condition in the tissue that is being treated. The body responds by increasing the metabolic activity around the impact area which in turn stimulates and accelerates the body’s own healing processes. If necessary you may use ordinary prescription-free pain killers.
Do not use anti-inflammatory medication and do not cool down the treated area both will interfere with the body’s self healing abilities.
What if I am painless after the shockwave treatment?
Even if you have no pain we strongly recommend that you refrain from intensive activities that stress the treated area for the next 48 hours after each treatment.
What is Radial Shockwave Therapy ( rESWT )?
Radial Shockwave Therapy is a fairly new treatment administered by professionals like medical doctors, physiotherapist and chiropractors. Radial Shockwave Therapy is a series of high energetic shockwaves applied to the area that needs treatment. A shockwave is a purely mechanical wave, not an electric one.
How does Radial Shockwave Therapy work?
The treatment initiates an inflammation-like condition in the tissue that is being treated. The body responds by increasing the blood circulation and metabolism in the impact area which in turn accelerates the body’s own healing processes. The shockwaves break down injured tissue and calcifications.
What if the shockwave treatment doesn’t work for me?
Even though the response to shockwave treatment normally is exceptionally good within a few weeks it may take several months before maximum effect is achieved. If you after 3-4 months still do not experience a pronounced improvement, surgery for example may be an alternative depending on your particular clinical picture.
Are there any contraindications or precautions that I should be aware of?
Yes.
- Cortisone injections are not to be administered within the last month before treatment is initiated
- Haemorrhage tendencies and coagulation system disturbances with supporting medication
- Heart conditions and blood circulation disturbances
- Acute inflammation in the treatment area
- Cancer and pregnancy
Read Dr. Esposito's book, "Pain Free and Fit."
