What is it?

Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure used to alleviate the symptoms of chronic Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendinitis that have not responded well to other forms of treatment such as physiotherapy or steroid injections. The Shockwave Therapy machine uses a probe to transmit high frequency sound waves to the affected area(s) which expand as they travel through your foot. These sound waves break down the scar tissue buildup and stimulate regeneration. It also increases blood flow to the affected area(s), which triggers your body’s natural healing process. To fully benefit from Shockwave Therapy, you will usually require a course of three to six treatments, one to two weeks apart.

What can it treat?

Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis/ Achilles Tendon Pain/ Mortons Neuroma/ Anterior Knee Pain / Tendonitis / Shin Splints / Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) / Bone Spurs

You should avoide if you:

  • are pregnant

  • are taking antiplatelets or anticoagulants

  • have a blood clotting disorder

  • are under the age of 18

  • have been diagnosed with bone cancer

  • have a cardiac pacemaker or other cardiac device

  • have an infection in your foot or a history of tendon or ligament rupture

  • have had any steroid injections in the previous 12 weeks

How does it work?

During your assessment, we will identify which area(s) will benefit from Shockwave Therapy treatment. Please make sure you’re available for the full course of your treatment. On the day of your sessions, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothes since you’ll be lying down during your treatment.

During each session, we apply ultrasound gel on the injured area(s) and then place the wand over the surface of the skin and the gel. The Shockwave wand will deliver compressed air impulses through the ultrasound gel. Each treatment will take approximately 15 - 20 minutes

Does it hurt?

Because we are breaking down old scar tissue, some people experience some mild pain or discomfort during their session; but that doesn’t last very long! During your treatment, we will make sure that you’re as comfortable as possible, and will try to adjust the intensity to help maintain a steady comfort level. Overall, there is virtually no downtime with Shockwave Therapy sessions; you can book a Shockwave treatment during your lunch hour and walk right back to the office! The only thing we recommend is that you avoid any strenuous activity or high impact exercise for a few days after each session.

If you do experience discomfort following your Shockwave Treatment, you can take a painkiller like Tylenol, but you should avoid anti-inflammatory medication (such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen) or ice therapy, as these can interfere with the body’s healing process.

As part of your treatment plan, we may also recommend specific exercises and/or orthotics to help with shock absorption or any underlying issues.

Studies have shown that there is up to an 80% chance that Shockwave Therapy is an effective treatment option for conditions that have not responded to other traditional forms of treatment.

Expect gradual healing to take place over days, weeks or months.

Call or email us to book an assessment to find out if shockwave will work for you.