Hope Island & Paradise Point
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment our physiotherapists may use to help manage some long-standing tendon and soft tissue conditions.
We'll assess you first to see whether it suits you. Shockwave therapy is generally used in conjunction with other treatment methods, such as exercise, hands-on therapy and education, based on your individual needs.
- Non-invasive
- Sessions of around 10–15 minutes
- Available at both clinics
The basics
What is shockwave therapy?
Shockwave therapy (also called extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or ESWT) uses a handheld device to send pulses of acoustic pressure waves through the skin into the area being treated.
We put gel on the skin first so the waves travel well, then move the applicator over the area. The photo above shows what this looks like.
Part of a complete plan. Shockwave therapy is generally used in conjunction with other treatment methods, such as a tailored exercise and loading program, hands-on therapy and advice on managing your activity. Your physiotherapist will build your plan around your individual needs. Results vary from person to person.
Evidence shows that shockwave therapy works by:
- Stimulating healing. The pressure waves prompt the body to restart its natural repair process in tendons and soft tissue where healing has stalled.
- Improving blood flow. Treatment encourages new small blood vessels to form, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the area.
- Reducing pain. It reduces pain signals from the treated area, which can make it easier to keep active and progress your exercises.
- Breaking down calcium deposits. In calcific shoulder tendinopathy, it can help break up calcium build-up in the tendon.
Conditions
What conditions may it help?
Research suggests shockwave therapy may help some people with the following conditions.
01
Plantar heel pain
Often called plantar fasciitis
02
Tennis elbow
Lateral elbow tendinopathy
03
Calcific shoulder tendinopathy
Calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons
04
Achilles tendinopathy
Pain in the tendon at the back of the ankle
05
Patellar tendinopathy
Often called jumper's knee
06
Lateral hip pain
Gluteal tendinopathy or greater trochanteric pain syndrome
How people respond varies, and shockwave therapy isn't suitable for everyone. Your physiotherapist will talk through your options with you, including other treatments.
Your visit
What to expect
Assessment first
Your physio does a full assessment to check whether shockwave therapy suits your condition.
During treatment
A session usually takes 10–15 minutes. You'll feel a strong tapping sensation, which can be uncomfortable. We'll adjust the intensity to suit you.
How many sessions
Most courses are 3–6 sessions, about a week apart, alongside the other parts of your treatment plan.
Afterwards
Some people have temporary redness, soreness, swelling or bruising. This usually settles within a few days.
Safety
Is it suitable for me?
Your physiotherapist will go through your health history before any treatment begins.
Shockwave therapy may not be suitable if you:
- Are pregnant
- Take blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder
- Have a pacemaker or other implanted device near the treatment area
- Have an infection, tumour or open wound in the area
- Have had a corticosteroid injection in the area recently
- Are a child or adolescent with growth plates still open near the area
Find out if shockwave therapy is right for you
Book an initial assessment with one of our physiotherapists. Depending on your fund and level of cover, private health insurance rebates may be available.
Individual results vary. Any treatment carries possible risks. Please see an appropriately qualified health practitioner for advice about your situation.
