Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a treatment method in which an applicator is used to direct radial ‘shockwaves’ on the part of the body to be treated. Lots of scientific research has been conducted into shockwave therapy over recent years. An analysis of the published research provides plenty of evidence to substantiate the advantages of shockwave therapy, and shows that there are lots of patients who benefit from the treatment. 

How does shockwave therapy work?

Once the physiotherapist has determined where the complaint originates, and that shockwave therapy is the correct treatment method to be used, some gel is applied to the painful area. Then the Shockwave device is used. The handpiece contains a fast-moving projectile controlled by a compressor. This projectile transmits energy to the applicator to generate the radial shockwaves, which then spread through and are absorbed by the body. The frequency and pressure of the waves can be adjusted. 

The shockwaves reduce pain partly through the creation of substance P and the hyperstimulation of pain sensors. The body itself regenerates the affected tissues, resulting in the following effects: 

• Improved blood flow and neovascularisation

• Increased growth factors

• More mesenchymal stem cells

• Stimulation of the metabolism