RPW Shockwave Therapy
What are RPW Shockwaves?
Radial shockwaves are introduced into the body by means of a freely moved applicator and cover the entire pain region. Radial shockwaves are often referred to as radial pressure waves, which is the correct definition in physical terms.
How do they work?
Shockwaves promote a change in the body at a cellular level by creating micro-stress to the cells which promotes an increase in blood flow, healing response and a decrease in pain substances. These changes break the chronic pain cycle and encourage more movement, less pain and a quicker recovery from long-term conditions.
Shockwave therapy has been proven to be up to 90% effective after 4-6 sessions. It can help to improve chronic musculoskeletal conditions by promoting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Some of these conditions include:
- Tennis/ Golfers Elbow/ Epicondylitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Myofascial trigger points – localised tender or painful areas
- Myofascial pain syndrome/ trigger points
- Chronic neck pain
- Chronic low back pain
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome/ bursitis
- Hamstring Tendinopathy
- Shin splints
- Patella Tendinopathy
- Achilles Tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel spurs
- Enthesopathy
Side Effects
Side effects could occur after a treatment with radial pressure wave therapy. The majority will appear after 1-2 days.
Common side effects include:
- Reddening
- Swelling
- Pain
- Haematoma (bruising)
- Petechia (red spots)
Speak to your therapist before taking any pain relief. These side effects usually subside after 5 to 10 days.
Effectiveness
SWT has been clinically trialled and tested. Patients who have undergone SWT have reported up to 90% improvement after 4-6 sessions with clients often reporting improvements after just one treatment.
Unsuitable for:
- Pregnancy
- Haemophilia or other coagulation disorders
- Acute inflammation
- Disturbed sensory and nervous function, eg. Diabetes
- Corticosteroid injections – wait minimum of 6 weeks after local injections
- Malignancy
- Prostheses and implants
Your therapist will be able to advise you further.
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