Most patients with chronic pain problems have been through various unsuccessful types of treatments. Up to 80% of the same patients worldwide report that Shockwave therapy has helped them eliminate their problem. 

There may be a slight feeling of discomfort during the treatment, depending on the level of pain the patient is already experiencing in the area. However, since the treatment lasts only about five minutes, most patients are able to tolerate this discomfort. Additionally, the intensity of the treatment can be adjusted throughout the session.

The number of treatments varies depending on the indication and tissue response. The effect of the treatment is cumulative, so you will typically need more than one treatment. Clivnical studies have varied between using 3-5 sessions. We suggest having 4. 

Most indications require 3–5 treatments which are done 3–10 days apart, depending on the patient’s tolerance and their tissue response. Delaying treatment past 10 days can reduce the effectiveness.

Most patients will experience an immediate pain relief following the treatment. However, within 2–4 hours after the treatment, they may experience some soreness in the treated area. This soreness has been reported as tolerable and not limiting.

It is recommended that patients refrain from physical activity, especially one that would involve the treated region, for about 48 hours following each treatment session.

Also, it is recommended not to take anti-inflammatory medication whilst having a course of shockwave.

Shockwave is unsuitable in the following circumstances: 

• If you are pregnant
• If you have a blood clotting disorder (including thrombosis)
• If you are taking oral anti-coagulants
• If you have received a Steroid injection within 6 weeks
• If you have a Pacemaker fitted
• If tumours are present at the treatment site
• If you have an infection or skin abrasion at the treatment site
• If you are Under 18 (except in the treatment of Osgood-Schlatter disease)
• Any treatment over an air-filled area such as the lungs or guts is also not possible.

This list is of course not exhaustive, and an assessment by a practitioner is always necessary. We know from experience there are certain treatments, conditions and individual histories that are likely respond better or worse to Shockwave, however in every assessment we look at the safety first.

We don't just perform the shockwave treatment, we look at why and how the injury may have occurred, and aim to address the cause. This may be through a combination of soft tissue work and/or exercise prescription. Many other clinics just do the shockwave treatment, with no regard for the causes.

We use the BTL 6000 Topline model - one of the most powerful portable units out there. BTL are a leading manufacturer of physiotherapy and aesthetic equipment. Please don't be fooled by cheap rip-off models purporting to be shockwave units that are selling on ebay and are deivered from China!