Shockwave Treatment in Adelaide
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Radial shockwave therapy uses high-intensity sound waves to promote the body's natural healing abilities. This new treatment energises cells to encourage the regeneration of tissues for long-term healing. The shockwave works by breaking up scar tissue and calcification by increasing circulation, consequently resulting in healing in the affected area, in particular tendons and bones.
Most patients need 4 to 6 treatments given over a period of 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how the body reacts. Shockwave is an effective conservative treatment for Achilles tendinopathy/tendonitis and Plantar fasciopathy/Fasciitis (Heel pain).
Studies show it has about a 75% success rate for these foot conditions.
At Plympton Podiatry, we use shockwave in conjunction with other therapies such as strapping, orthotic therapy and stretching/loading programs. Appropriate footwear advice is also given. These treatment combinations used with the shockwave will depend on your individual needs.
When Do You Need Therapy?
At Plympton Podiatry Centre, we commonly use shockwave therapy to treat heel pain and chronic conditions, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, though the treatment can be used all over the body. If you are suffering from chronic heel pain, speak with one of our podiatrists to see if this treatment would work for you.
Contraindications to Shockwave
Coagulation disorders, tumours, cancer, children, metal implants in the area, pregnancy, acute inflammation /infection and if you have had a recent cortisone injection into the affected area.
What Are the Benefits of Shockwave?
The main benefit of this treatment is pain relief. Though the treatment can cause some pain and numbness when first administrated, it is almost always followed by pain relief 10-12 weeks after starting the first session. As the tissues regenerate, the cause of your pain will be gradually reduced, and after about 10 weeks from the initial treatment, this pain relief becomes greatest. We advise against heavy exercise/activity whilst undergoing the shockwave treatment as this can reduce its efficacy.