Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a non-invasive medical treatment that involves the use of high-energy shockwaves to treat a variety of medical conditions. These shockwaves are acoustic waves with high energy and pressure that are generated outside the body and then transmitted to the target tissue within the body.

Shockwave therapy was initially developed to treat kidney stones (lithotripsy) non-invasively, by breaking down the stones into smaller fragments so they can be passed more easily. Over time, its applications have expanded to treat various musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions, such as:​

  1. Tendonitis and Tendinopathy: Shockwave therapy can stimulate blood flow and promote healing in conditions like Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and tennis elbow.
  2. Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Shockwaves can help break down calcium deposits that form in the shoulder tendons, which can reduce pain and improve shoulder function.
  3. Muscle Pain and Trigger Points: Shockwave therapy can be used to treat myofascial trigger points, which are tight knots in muscle fibers that can cause pain and discomfort.
  4. Bone Healing: Shockwaves can promote bone healing and regeneration, making them useful in cases of non-union fractures.

Shockwave therapy is believed to promote tissue healing and reduce pain by increasing blood flow, stimulating metabolic activity, and triggering the body’s natural healing response.

Shockwave Therapy can be used to treat a number of conditions, including:

  • Tendonitis and Tendinopathy
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
  • Myofascial Trigger Points
  • Non-Union Fractures
  • Hip Bursitis