What is extracorporeal shockwave therapy?

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Shockwave Therapy is a series of high-energy percussions to an affected area. The shockwave is a physical sound wave "shock", not an electric one.​

What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?

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This therapy stimulates the body's natural self-healing process by triggering an inflammatory response. There is an immediate reduction of pain and improved range of motion.

• Treatment produces an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the site of pain. This stimulates and accelerates the healing process (promotes the remodeling of dysfunctional collagenous tissues, such as tendinopathies, trigger points, muscle strains, etc.).

• Shockwaves break down scar tissue and/or calcification

• Transmission of pain is diminished through neurological mechanisms (inhibition of nociceptors)

How long does the treatment last?

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About 5 minutes and approximately 2000 shocks are administered per treatment area.  Some conditions require more time.

How many treatments will I need?

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Normally three to five treatments are necessary at weekly but no more than bi-weekly intervals; there is a small possibility that 2 or more additional treatments may be necessary if your condition is very chronic. Should you not respond in this time, your case will be reviewed with the practitioner to determine an appropriate referral.\

Shockwave is not advised for the following:

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• Coagulation disorders, thrombosis, heart or circulatory patients

• Use of anticoagulants, especially Marcumar, Heparin, Coumadin

• Tumour diseases, carcinoma, cancer patients

• Pregnancy (treatment areas around the pelvic region; other areas are safe to treat)

• Polyneuropathy in case of diabetes mellitus

• Acute inflammations / pus focus in the target area

• Children in growth over growth plate areas

• Cortisone therapy up to 6 weeks before first treatment 

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