Focus Shockwave Therapy

What are focused shockwaves and how do they work?

Focused Extracorporeal Shockwave therapy (ESWT) or (FSW) is a device that creates high energy acoustic waves. In this method of treatment, the acoustic wave is focused and transmitted into the body with a maximum depth of about 12 centimetres.

In the body the acoustic wave passes deep into the tissues, stimulating the body’s healing mechanism to occur whilst also decreasing pain.

What is FSW indicated for?

The following is a short list of some of the conditions which typically respond well to FSW.

  • Tendinopathies – e.g. plantar fasciopathy, (plantar fasciitis), tennis/ golfers’ elbow, (epicondylalgia), Achilles tendinopathy, gluteal tendinopathy.
  • Myofascial trigger points – localised tender or painful areas.
  • Frozen shoulder and calcific tendinopathies.
  • Muscle hypertonia.

Contraindications to FSW.

  • Pregnancy
  • Haemophilia or other coagulation disorders
  • Acute inflammation
  • Disturbed sensory and nervous function, e.g. Diabetes.
  • Corticosteroid Injections – (cortisone) Wait a minimum of 6 weeks after local injections.
  • Malignancy
  • Prostheses and implants
  • Treatment directly over lung tissue, large nerves and spinal cord.

Benefits of FSW:

  • Short duration for treatment.
  • Deep tissues are accessible by the waves.
  • Non-invasive with minimal side effects.
  • Precise and targeted application.
  • Results usually seen within a couple of sessions.
  • Alternative to medications.

Possible Side effects of FSW:

Minimal side effects can sometimes occur, these can include:

  • Redness of the skin at location of treatment.
  • Possible bruising and some local discomfort at the treatment area.