What is extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)?
"Fewer potential complications and a faster return to normal activity”
FDA
ESWT is an exciting new non-invasive procedure carried out in our Out-patients department. No anaesthetic, medication or surgery is required. Once you have been referred by your GP treatment can start almost immediately after assessment by the consultant.
The sound waves promoted during the treatment, stimulate healing for many physical disorders including plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis and shoulder calcification. The technology has been approved by NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence), Spire Clinical Governance and Medical Advisory Committee.
At Spire Fylde Coast Hospital we use the Swiss Dolorclast ESWT machine - what’s the advantage?
“ESWT offers two main advantages over traditional surgical methods: fewer potential complications and a faster return to normal activity.” FDA
- no anaesthesia
- non invasive
- no medication
- no surgery
- fast treatment – 30 minutes per session, 3-4 sessions required
- fewer complications
- virtually painless after treatment
- speedy recovery and quick results
How does ESWT work?
- a shockwave is generated in the hand piece
- the shockwave is delivered to the tissue via a compressed air impulse exerted by the hand piece
- the shockwave radiates out, extending to the entire area where pain occurs
- usually no more than 3-4 sessions are needed
- per session : approximately 2500 impulses at 2.5 bars and 4000 impulses for trigger point treatment
- no anaesthetic is required
- no surgery or other therapy is required and treatment can usually start straight away
Many indications, one therapy
- tennis elbow - painful inflammation of the tendon attachment on the lateral elbow
- shoulder tendinopathy especially calcific Tendinitis - painful limitation of shoulder movement due to calcification
- golfer’s elbow - painful inflammation of the tendon attachment on the medial elbow
- trochanteric bursitis - painful periostitis of the outer femur
- jumper’s knee (patellar tendinopathy) - inflammation of the point of attachment of the patellar ligament
- shin splints - inflammation of the tibial edge due to excessive strain
- achilles tendinopathy - painful irritation of the Achilles tendon
- plantar fasciitis - painful, mostly chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia
- chronic enthesopathies - painful irritation of tendon attachments due to overexertion or improper strain, or due to degenerative processes
If you would like more information or want to book an appointment for ESWT, please call us on 01253 394188.