Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive physiotherapy treatment that uses controlled acoustic waves to deliver mechanical energy to targeted tissues. It is commonly used in the management of certain persistent tendon and soft-tissue conditions and can be incorporated into a broader rehabilitation programme.
At SA Miracle Health, shockwave therapy is provided following an assessment of your condition, symptoms, and functional needs. The treatment intensity and number of sessions are determined according to your individual requirements.
Key Benefits
- Helps manage persistent pain: Shockwave therapy may help reduce pain associated with certain chronic tendon and musculoskeletal conditions.
- Supports tissue recovery: The mechanical stimulation may encourage biological responses within the treated tissues.
- Supports tendon rehabilitation: It is commonly used as part of rehabilitation for selected tendon-related conditions.
- Improves local circulation: Shockwave treatment may increase local blood flow and support the body’s natural healing processes.
- Helps reduce stiffness: Treatment may help improve comfort and mobility when combined with an appropriate exercise programme.
- Non-invasive treatment: Shockwave therapy is performed externally, without injections or surgery.
- Complements rehabilitation: It can be combined with therapeutic exercises, stretching, manual therapy, and other physiotherapy approaches.
Experience & Aftercare
During a shockwave therapy session, your physiotherapist applies a handheld applicator to the affected area. Controlled acoustic waves are delivered through the applicator to the targeted tissue.
You may experience tapping, pressure, or some discomfort during the treatment. The intensity can be adjusted according to your tolerance and the condition being treated.
After your session, you may be advised to:
- Avoid strenuous exercise involving the treated area for the period recommended by your physiotherapist.
- Continue your prescribed rehabilitation exercises.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medication unless advised by your healthcare professional, as it may not be appropriate around some shockwave treatment protocols.
- Drink sufficient water and allow your body adequate time to recover.
- Inform your physiotherapist if you experience significant or persistent pain after treatment.
- Follow your individualized aftercare instructions.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave therapy may be considered for certain persistent tendon and musculoskeletal conditions, including some cases of plantar heel pain, tendinopathy, and other soft-tissue problems that have not responded adequately to conventional rehabilitation.
It is not appropriate for every condition or patient. Your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms and medical history before recommending treatment.
Shockwave therapy may require additional precautions or may be unsuitable for people with certain bleeding disorders, blood-thinning medication, pregnancy in the treatment area, active infection, tumors, significant nerve or vascular problems, or certain implanted devices.
Your physiotherapist will determine whether shockwave therapy is appropriate and whether any modifications are required.
Why Choose Shockwave Therapy at SA Miracle Health?
- Treatment provided by trained physiotherapy professionals.
- Individual assessment before beginning treatment.
- Treatment parameters adjusted according to your condition and tolerance.
- Targeted approach for appropriate tendon and soft-tissue conditions.
- Can be combined with progressive rehabilitation exercises.
- Non-invasive treatment option.
- Ongoing guidance throughout your rehabilitation programme.