Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT)

Shockwave therapy is becoming more common and important in physiotherapy. The modality is effective for a lingering injury or pain resulting from illness. It is used in many musculo-skeletal conditions, especially those involving connective tissues such as ligaments and tendons. According to Medical Professionals, shockwave Therapy is also a viable option to consider for patients with chronic tendinitis that has not responded even to more conservative treatments.

What Is Shock Wave Therapy?

Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) is a procedure where acoustic shock waves are passed through the skin to the injured part of the body being treated. The shockwaves are mechanical and not electric. They are audible, low energy sound waves, which work by increasing blood flow to the injured area. This initiates a bio-physical response in the injured tissue, accelerating the body’s healing process by increasing cell generation and dissolving calcium deposits.

Why Should I use Shock Wave Therapy?

Most patients with chronic pain problems have been through various unsuccessful types of treatments. Up to 80% of the same patients worldwide report that Shockwave therapy has helped them eliminate their problem. The combination of shockwave therapy and a graded tendon re-loading rehab program with our physiotherapists is recommended to give increased treatment benefits.

What is the Medical Effect of Shock Wave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy has different bio-physical effect on your tissues by which it helps cure your pain. It eliminates the pain causing deep “trigger points” from your muscles, reverses the chronic inflammation in the soft tissue and promotes collagen fibre synthesis in the joints. Studies have proven calcium build-up a.k.a calcification is most often a result of micro-tears or other trauma to a tendon. Acoustic shockwaves break up the existing calcifications and improve muscle functions and joint range of motion.

Does the treatment Hurt?

There may be a slight feeling of discomfort during the treatment, depending on the level of pain the patient is already experiencing in the area. However, since the treatment lasts only few minutes, most patients are able to tolerate this discomfort. Additionally, the intensity of the treatment can be adjusted throughout the session.

How many treatments do I need?

The number of treatments varies depending on the indication and tissue response. The effect of the treatment is cumulative, so you will typically need more than one (3–5) treatment. Very often though, you will experience relief right after the first treatment.

What happens after Shock Wave Therapy?

Most patients will experience an immediate pain relief following the treatment. However, within 2–4 hours after the treatment, they may experience some soreness in the treated area. This soreness has been reported as tolerable and not limiting. It is recommended that patients refrain from physical activity, especially one that would involve the treated region, for about 48 hours following each treatment session.