Shockwave is a non-invasive form of treatment that has been around for 20 years now, initially being used to treat kidney stones. Shockwave produces acoustic waves that help in treating a number of musculoskeletal conditions, especially in those chronic situations termed tendinopathy. The energy that is produced by the acoustic waves promotes blood flow, regeneration of tissue, and collagen production.

Shockwave is great for treating:

• Jumper’s knee
• Tennis elbow
• Heel spur
• Chronic tendinopathy
• Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints)
• Calcification
• Hip pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Trigger points
• Acute muscle cramps

Shockwave FAQ

What is Shockwave?  Shockwave therapy is a form of treatment that uses sound waves transmitted through the skin into painful tissues.  The shockwaves are produced by a change in pressure that sends energy output from an applicator through the body tissues.  The energy that is transmitted promotes tissue regeneration, blood flow, collagen production, calcification breakdown, and ultimately, functional improvements and pain relief.

What kind of injuries or conditions can Shockwave treat?  Plantar fasciitis; tendinopathy (Achilles, patellar); Tennis elbow; Golfer’s elbow; rotator cuff calcific tendinopathy; painful trigger points; Medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints).

What will I experience during Shockwave treatment?  You may feel some discomfort during your treatment, depending on the region being treated, however this discomfort typically doesn’t linger long after the treatment is over.

How long does it take, and is it part of my physiotherapy treatment?  There will be a 15 minute window built into your treatment time in order to utilize the Shockwave machine. Treatments are usually broken up over a few sessions and spaced out by roughly a week, depending on the area and injury being treated. Shockwave requires an accumulative effect in order for it to have the maximal desired outcomes for a given condition being treated.

Are there any post-treatment instructions?  Following shockwave therapy, you may want to use either ice or heat if you feel any soreness in the region that was treated. We also recommend taking it easy after your sessions and refraining from any strenuous physical activity in order to allow for the treatment to be fully effective.

Unsure if Shockwave Therapy is right for you?  Speak to one of our physiotherapists to determine if this modality may be suitable for your injury.

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