Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendonitis, Heel and Arch Pain
What is extracorporeal shockwave therapy?
Shock wave therapy uses pressure waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. It is a non-invasive method to treat chronic soft tissue conditions such as Heel and Arch pain. High-energy acoustic waves (shock waves) deliver a mechanical force to the body’s tissues.
When would I use this therapy?
At Better Health we have been using Shock wave therapy to treat chronic soft tissue conditions such as degenerated tendons (Achilles tendonitis) and heel pain (plantar fasciitis) with amazing results over the last 2 years. Shockwave therapy is our go to for injuries that have failed to respond to other more commonly used interventions such as orthotic support, manipulation, soft tissue work, dry needling, stretching and exercise rehabilitation. While these still have their place, the integration of shockwave therapy into our protocols has significantly enhanced our results with both in speed of recovery and cost of treatments overall. Interestingly, the longer the injury has been there and the more resistant it has been to standard conservative care the better shockwave therapy appears to work.
What does the Shockwave Therapy Procedure Involve?
A non-invasive probe is applied to the skin after a gel is applied. This probe creates an energy wave that is focused on the area of concern. It appears that the shockwaves work through their ability to re-invigorate the normal healing response by breaking down old scaring in ways that other therapies cannot.
Low-energy shock wave therapy is performed without anesthesia. It is a biofeedback tool, so therapy is more successful with active patient participation where the patient tells the therapist whether or not the probe is at the area of pain. A minimum of 3 consecutive weekly treatment sessions may be needed. This may vary depending on nature of the particular injury.
What happens post procedure?
Patients typically notice some degree of pain reduction in the very first visit . The level of physical activity for the next day or two should be reduced.
Contra-indications – When should I avoid this therapy?
Shockwave therapy is associated with very few and infrequent complications. People with Peripheral Neuropathy (those who have poor sensation) or hypersensitivity in the treatment area should not have this procedure. It is not recommended with people who have vascular insufficiency. Shock wave therapy is not used in patients with heart conditions or seizures. It should not be used where there are open wounds or tumors. It is not recommended for clients during pregnancy.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment contact reception on 95180722 or email reception@betterhealthpractice.com.au
