Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive, National Institute of Clinical Excellence approved treatment that uses high-intensity sound waves to target specific areas of the body. It is commonly used to treat chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries.
There are several different types of injuries and conditions that can benefit from ESWT, including plantar fasciopathy tennis elbow, and Achilles tendinopathy. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the top 5 injuries that ESWT can help with.
- Plantar Fascioapthy: Plantar fasciopathy is a common cause of heel pain, and it occurs when the plantar fascia (a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot) becomes irritated. This condition is often caused by overuse, such as from running or standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time. ESWT can be an effective treatment for plantar fasciopathy because it helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected tissue.
- Tennis Elbow: Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. It is commonly caused by repetitive strain on the muscles and tendons that attach to the elbow, such as from playing tennis or other racquet sports. ESWT can be effective in treating tennis elbow because it helps to break up scar tissue and stimulate the production of new, healthy tissue.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the body, and it connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overuse and strain can cause the tendon to become inflamed and painful, a condition known as Achilles tendinopathy. ESWT can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the tendon, making it an effective treatment for this condition.
- Calcific Tendinitis: Calcific tendinitis is a condition that causes calcium deposits to form in the shoulder, leading to pain and stiffness. It is most common in middle-aged individuals and those who perform repetitive overhead movements, such as painters and construction workers. ESWT can be effective in treating calcific tendinitis because it helps to break up the calcium deposits and promote healing in the affected tissue.
- Patellar Tendinopathy: Patellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper’s knee, is a common cause of knee pain in athletes. It occurs when the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shin bone, becomes inflamed and painful. ESWT can be effective in treating patellar tendinopathy because it helps to break up scar tissue and stimulate the production of new, healthy tissue.
In conclusion, ESWT is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. It is particularly effective in treating plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, Achilles tendinopathy, calcific tendinitis, and patellar tendinopathy.
If you are experiencing chronic pain and have not found relief with other treatments, call us today on 020 3488 2698.
Our physiotherapists are expertly trained in the use of shockwave therapy.