Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a safe and effective treatment for various acute and chronic conditions. It utilizes acoustic pressure waves (not electric shock) to deliver high-energy pulses to targeted areas, triggering the body’s natural healing response and promoting regeneration and repair in bones, tendons, and soft tissues. This powerful treatment increases blood flow to the area, reducing inflammation, breaking down scar tissue, and encouraging long-term healing.
At Millrise Physiotherapy and Massage, our physiotherapists combine shockwave therapy with other treatments to enhance recovery, address underlying biomechanical issues, and prevent re-injury. Using the latest Storz Medical shockwave technology, we maximize treatment outcomes, helping you feel better, faster.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy accelerates recovery through:
- Collagen Stimulation: Promotes collagen synthesis to strengthen tendons, muscles, and ligaments.
- Tissue Healing: Increases fibroblasts, stem cells, and growth factors to accelerate tissue repair.
- Bone Regeneration: Stimulates osteoblasts and growth factors for bone repair.
- Improved Circulation: Boosts blood flow and oxygenation to reduce pain and enhance healing.
- Pain Reduction: Decreases pain sensitivity and inflammation by triggering neural effects.
- Trigger Point Release: Reverses muscle fiber tension, alleviating myofascial pain and discomfort.
Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy
Common conditions effectively treated with Radial Shockwave Therapy include:
- Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
- Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Tendonitis/Tendinopathy (Achilles, Patellar, etc.)
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel Spurs
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
- Calcific Tendonitis
- Myofascial Trigger Points
- Shin Splints (Tibial Stress Syndrome)
- Arthritis
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
- Scar Tissue and Bursitis
- Stress Fractures
Don’t see your condition? Contact us to see if shockwave therapy could be the right treatment for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it work?
Shockwave Therapy has a 75-95% success rate, depending on the injury. Many patients experience relief after the first session, with cumulative benefits after 3-4 treatments.
Does it hurt?
You may feel mild discomfort during treatment, which can be adjusted based on your tolerance. Some patients experience immediate pain relief, though mild soreness may appear within 2-4 hours post-treatment. This is part of the body’s natural healing process and usually subsides within 24 hours.
What if I feel pain after the treatment?
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications and ice, as they can reduce the body’s natural healing response. Instead, use a heat pack and gentle stretching to ease discomfort.
How many treatments are needed?
Most conditions require 3-5 sessions, spaced a week apart. Each session typically lasts 5-10 minutes, depending on the condition.
Is Shockwave Therapy covered by insurance?
Yes, Shockwave Therapy is billed as physiotherapy and is often covered by extended health insurance plans. Please check with your provider for specific coverage details.
Is Shockwave Therapy safe?
Shockwave Therapy is very safe for most people. However, it’s not recommended if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, blood clotting disorder, recent steroid injections, or certain other medical conditions. Our physiotherapist will discuss any contraindications with you to ensure a safe treatment.
Can Shockwave Therapy help with chronic injuries?
Yes, it’s highly effective for chronic pain and injuries. Shockwave Therapy can break down scar tissue and initiate the body’s natural healing response, making it effective even years after an injury.
Could Shockwave Therapy help avoid surgery?
Yes, shockwave therapy has been proven effective in treating both pre- and post-surgical pain. In some cases, it can even reduce the need for surgery when combined with physiotherapy.
Why Choose Shockwave Therapy at Millrise Physiotherapy and Massage?
Our clinic combines shockwave therapy with manual physiotherapy techniques to target and resolve the root cause of injuries, helping you avoid lengthy treatment plans and unnecessary surgeries. Contact us today to book your session and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved function.