Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is most commonly used to treat unresolved chronic soft tissue conditions around the joints of the body.  Here is what people are saying about Radial Shockwave Therapy.

It is a relatively new technology, that was developed in Europe in the late 1980’s but has only been available in Canada in more recent years.  It is a fast, safe, non-invasive and effective form of treatment.

The therapy works by applying acoustic energy pulses into the tissues of the injured area of the body.  These pulses of acoustic energy work to increase the metabolic activity at the problem site, increase blood flow, stimulate the reabsorption of irritative calcium in tissues, inhibit painful nerves reducing pain and stimulate the body’s natural healing process, thus speeding up recovery.

During your appointment your history will be taken and an examination performed.  In some cases X-rays or other tests may be required or may have already been performed by your Family Physician or a Specialist who has determined your diagnosis.  When it is determined that Shockwave treatment may be of significant benefit to you, treatment can begin.  If you have taken corticosteroid therapy, treatment will be delayed for up to 6 weeks until the drug has become inactive.

Radial Shockwave Therapy typically requires three treatments spaced one week apart.

Based on clinical findings, treatment is carried out by passing the shockwave applicator over the injured area.  Application of the shockwave treatment only lasts a few minutes.  Many patients start feeling better after the first treatment.  Some patients may feel sore in the early phases of their recovery because they have scar tissue and calcium which is broken down by the shockwaves.

The term “Radial Shock Wave Therapy” (RSWT) is commonly used because the shockwaves descriptively spread out in a spherical or ball-shaped wave, propagating in a radial fashion.

As the body’s natural healing processes are stimulated and increased healing starts to occur, pain and other symptoms can be expected to lessen.

Some patients will not feel a difference until several weeks after finishing their treatment. Improvement depends on the chronicity and severity of the problem.  The effect of healing is cumulative and therefore most patients will continue to feel gradual improvement for 3 months and up to 6 months after treatment.

Results may vary from patient to patient.

Has Radial Shock Wave been clinically proven?

What is the cost?