Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a ‘game changing’ treatment for musculoskeletal soft tissue and sports injuries including chronic tendon pain (tendinopathy). It can be effective where other treatments have not been, in the treatment of a range of tendon problems including plantar fasciitis, ankle, shoulder, knee and elbow pain and often in only 3-4 treatments.
EWST is a non-invasive form of treatment whose effectiveness is strongly supported by a large body of research and clinical trial.
Avenue Clinic have a radial shockwave therapy machine. It uses a series of mechanical energetic shockwaves, applied to the area needing treatment. It initiates an inflammation like response ( pro inflammatory) in the tissues that encourages healing by ‘rebooting’ the body’s own healing mechanism, which then allows the body to heal soft tissue injuries in that immediate area. The shockwaves also work to de-sensitise nerve endings which will often result in an immediate reduction in pain. However, it is recommended at intense or pain provoking activity is avoided for 48 hours after treatment.
ESWT works best as part of a treatment and rehabilitation programme. Any biomechanical issues (such as posture, alignment, gait, running style, muscle length and strength issues) which have contributed or led to a problem also need to be addressed for best long lasting results. An exercise programme to maximise the beneficial effects of ESWT will be issued as part of your treatment programme.
CONDITIONS IT MAY HELP IN
A number of studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in treating tendon problems that have failed other forms of conservative management. ESWT is now increasingly being used earlier in treatment to facilitate and speed up recovery. The following have been shown by research to benefit from EWST.
- Achilles insertional and mid portion tendinopathy
- Tennis elbow (pain on the outside the elbow)
- Golfers elbow(pain on the inside of the elbow)
- Calcific deposits of the rotator cuff
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Patella tendinopathy
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Biceps tendinopathy
HOW IS THE TREATMENT DELIVERED?
Normally patients will book in for 3 consecutive weekly treatments. ( no less than a week apart and no more than two) The initial treatment includes a consultation and shockwave treatment and will last 30 minutes. Follow up sessions will last 20-30 minutes and will include the shockwave session and exercise prescription or review.
OTHER INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS
ESWT is a non-invasive and very safe treatment but may be uncomfortable due to its main mechanism of action causing controlled micro-trauma to provide a window of opportunity for your body to heal. Your treating therapist will discuss and plan your treatment programme with you to ensure it is as effective and comfortable as possible and you are always in control of the level of the treatment delivery. Immediately after treatment many people feel a dramatic reduction in pain, unfortunately this effect only usually lasts for a few hours. The true lasting benefit is often not realised until around 8-10 weeks after the third (last) treatment. A review session is often recommended 12 weeks after the last treatment.
You will need to avoid heavy impact and loading exercise for a short period after treatment. Clear instructions for post treatment protocols will be provided by your treating therapist.
FEES
If you have private medical insurance this treatment may or may not be covered for your specific condition. Please always check with your insurance company or discuss with your treating clinician first.
HOW TO BOOK ESWT TREATMENT
If you are already under going treatment please discuss with your therapist or doctor. If you are not currently having treatment please discuss with your GP or contact us for further information as some conditions aren’t suitable for treatment.
Download the information leaflet here
Prices
Shockwave is £120 per 30 minute session. You will usually require between 3 - 5 sessions. Some people may require a follow-up to review treatment. This will be determined by your progress and will be discussed with you by your practitioner. Please note that you cannot take any anti-inflammatory medication for 2 weeks prior to treatment and for 2 days after all Shockwave treatment has finished. If you have recently had a Cortisone injection you are not able to have Shockwave therapy for 6 weeks post injection. Please note although we are covered by numerous insurance companies; AXA PPP International, WPA, Allianz, Bupa International, Aviva, please phone your insurance company before you attend your appointment to see if your insurance will cover the treatment. We are unable to claim directly with Foresters or Oddfellows.
Therapists
Dimi Argyros
Dimi has nearly 30 years experience as an Osteopath and is passionate about treating the whole person. She enjoys treating all ages but finds treating babies to be particularly rewarding because the whole family often seems to benefit.
Janine Santer
Janine possesses strong manual skills complemented by a solid background in rehabilitation, enabling her to engage comprehensively with the entire patient journey. She has worked alongside some of the leading Orthopaedic and Neuro Surgeons in England and maintains firm links with her Harley Street colleagues.
She has a broad and varied sporting background and has continued involvement with post operative patient care. Janine is well versed in Mat and Reformer based Pilates practice.
Nicki Bolingbroke
Nicki graduated in 1992 and arrived in Guernsey in 1994. Since arriving she’s developed a keen interest in shoulder rehabilitation and sports injuries and more recently, has become passionate about cycling and related lower limb pathologies. She is a qualified BikeFitPro.
