Cardiff SHOCKWAVE Therapy
@TWC
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) works by targeting injured areas with sound waves. This triggers the body’s natural inflammatory healing response, which encourages a quicker recovery time. It is particularly helpful for chronic injuries, tissue that isn’t healing, and those that haven’t responded to conservative treatments such as chiropractic, physiotherapy, rest, injections, ice therapy and painkillers.
It is clinically proven to:
- Reduce pain
- Increase circulation of blood into the surrounding soft tissues
- Begin the healing process triggered by stem cell activation.
Our clinic uses the The Swiss DolorClast Method®, which is the most well-researched shock wave therapy with a combination of unique technologies, clinically proven protocols and education to ensure significant improvement in given musculoskeletal and dermatological indications.
For more information about how RSWT technology works and the research behind it, visit the EMS website:
Who is Shockwave suitable for?
Shockwave Therapy treatment is a highly effective treatment available for patients with chronic pain:
· Plantar Fasciitis
· Achilles Tendinopathy
· Shoulder pain
· Tennis & Golfers Elbow
· Patella (knee) Tendinopathy
· Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
· Trochanteric bursitis (Lateral hip pain)
Before your Shockwave treatment
If you haven't had a previous consultation with one of our chiropractors you will need to have an initial assessment to identify the exact area of pain and ensure RSWT is appropriate for you. We will also discuss if a referral for any further tests or scans are needed before commencing treatment.
What to expect during Shockwave treatment
During the shockwave session your practitioner will apply ultrasound gel to the area and then place the hand piece of the device over the surface of the skin and the gel. The impulses are delivered through the skin as a shockwave that spreads inside the injured tissue to initiate the inflammation-like response.
The shockwaves are felt as pulses which can be slightly painful, but your practitioner will work with you by starting at a low level of intensity and increase this to a point where you feel comfortable. Any pain felt, will stop as soon as the treatment ends.
Shockwave therapy treatments are usually performed at weekly intervals. Each treatment session usually takes about 15 minutes and you will need 3 - 5 treatment sessions.
What to expect after treatment
Many patients experience an improvement in symptoms almost immediately while others can a few weeks to respond. You may notice some discomfort or swelling of the 2-4 hours after treatment, but any pain will subside within 24 hours. You can take over the counter painkillers (such as paracetamol) but you should avoid anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen) and ice therapy, as these can interfere with the body’s natural healing process
A review appointment is suggested at 6-8 weeks to assess your overall progress.
Aftercare
You will be able to return to your usual activities straight away and can return to work immediately, however we advise you not to undertake any strenuous, pain-provoking activity or high impact exercise for 48 hours following the procedure.