Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive procedure in which a hand-held device is used to pass acoustic shockwaves to the affected area. It is purely a mechanical wave, not an electric one.
Shockwave Therapy stimulates and supports the body’s self-healing mechanisms. There are no medications or surgery involved.
It is included in the NICE guidelines for the management of refractory (chronic) tendinopathies involving conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy and tennis elbow but can be used for most common tendinopathies.
The treatment itself can be painful during the application of the Shockwave Therapy. The treatment is delivered according to patient response, if a patient is unable to tolerate the pain levels the settings will adjusted to reduce the discomfort. A mild ache may occur later that day but should pass after a day.
Contraindications or precautions
Shockwave Therapy should not be carried out if any of the following criteria apply:
- Presence of a Cardiac pacemaker
- Pregnancy
- If you have received a Corticosteroid injection in the area in past 12 weeks
- Malignancy is known to be present in or near the treatment area
- Treatment site has open wounds, skin rashes, swollen, inflamed, or infected areas
- Over ischemic tissues in individuals with vascular disease
- Coagulation disorder or taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications
- Infection at the treatment site to avoid the risk of spreading
- History of latex allergy or allergy to coupling solution
Fee structure
Shockwave Therapy – 1 body part (30 minutes) – £83
Shockwave Therapy – 2 body parts (30 minutes) – £98
