Stimulate healing and relieve chronic pain with non-invasive shockwave therapy
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) was introduced in Europe in the 1990s and is a relatively new way of treating soft tissue injuries.
ESWT has been used successfully to treat sports injuries including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles tendinosis
- Patellar tendinosis
- Shoulder tendinosis
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer's elbow
About 70-90% of patients experience immediate pain relief (Uzun et al., 2020) after the treatment and long-term improvement from 4-6 weeks onwards.
How does it work?
ESWT promotes healing of the injured site by focusing high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area. These shockwaves stimulate the body's natural healing response, promoting tissue repair, improving blood circulation, and breaking down damaged tissue.
More Information on ESWT
What are the risks?
ESWT is generally safe and well-tolerated. Some patients may experience:
- Mild discomfort during treatment
- Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the treatment site
- Short-term increase in pain after the session
This treatment may not be suitable if you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or have an active infection at the treatment site.
What is an ESWT session like?
ESWT is performed as an outpatient procedure and typically takes about 30 minutes per session. During the treatment, there may be mild discomfort or pain, similar to "being tapped on by a small hammer" over the area of injury. Depending on the individual's tolerance, the intensity of the shock waves would be gradually increased to achieve the right level needed to help your body heal.
A course of treatment usually involves 2-4 sessions spaced over a few weeks, depending on your condition.
Consult our sports physician to determine if ESWT is suitable for your condition!
Click here for more detailed information regarding our Sports Medicine department.
Click here to make an appointment with Sports & Exercise Medicine clinic, or call 6555 8828.
