Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is an effective treatment option for various injuries. This type of therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate the healing process in injured tissues in the body.
There are several benefits to using ESWT for injuries, including the following:
1. Faster recovery time
One of the main benefits of ESWT is that it can speed up the healing process. Traditional treatments for injuries often involve rest, ice, and physical therapy, which can take weeks or even months to provide relief. In contrast, ESWT can provide significant improvement in a shorter amount of time.
For example, a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that ESWT was effective at reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis. The patients who received ESWT had a much faster recovery time compared to those who received placebo treatment.
2. Non-invasive treatment (no surgery or injections required!)
ESWT is a non-invasive treatment option, which means that it does not require surgery or other invasive procedures like an injection. This is particularly beneficial for patients who are hesitant to undergo surgical procedures, or for those who are not candidates for surgery due to medical reasons.
Furthermore, because ESWT is non-invasive, it typically has a lower risk of complications and a quicker recovery time compared to surgical procedures. This means that patients can return to their normal activities faster and with less discomfort.
3. Safe and effective
ESWT has been extensively studied and has been found to be a safe and effective treatment option for various musculoskeletal injuries. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has approved the use of ESWT for the treatment of several conditions, including plantar fasciitis and tennis elbow.
Additionally, ESWT has been shown to be effective at providing long-term pain relief for many patients. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research found that ESWT was effective at reducing pain and improving function in patients with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) up to two years after treatment.
4. Can be used in combination with other treatments
ESWT can be used in combination with other treatment options, such as physiotherapy, to provide even greater benefits. For example, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research found that ESWT combined with physiotherapy was more effective at reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis compared to physiotherapy alone.
This means that ESWT can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to provide the most effective relief for injuries.
5. Affordable
The cost of ESWT does vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the number of treatments required, however it is generally considered to be an affordable treatment option.
Furthermore, because ESWT can provide faster relief and improved function compared to other treatment options, it can ultimately save our patients money in the long run by reducing the need for ongoing treatment.
In conclusion, ESWT is a safe, effective, and affordable treatment option for various musculoskeletal injuries. It can provide faster recovery times and long-term pain relief, and can be used in combination with other treatment options.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from an injury, give us a call and we can help talk you through your options – 020 3488 2698.
If you would like to learn more about ESWT and how it can help with your injury, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.