Shock wave therapy
To treat
Knee arthritis pain. Longstanding tendinopathies
Information
This non-invasive treatment harnesses the healing effect of acoustic (shock) waves to help the pain of arthritis. It can also be used to heal tendons with tendinopathies that have failed to improve with other treatment methods.
Shock Wave Therapy (SWT) is performed in the clinic room with a special machine. Patients do not need pain-killers before or after treatment. It is well tolerated. It reliably relieves symptoms in 60-80% of cases. Pain relief usually starts soon after the first treatment but can take after 1-2 weeks to become apparent in some cases.
Risks
No significant side effects. Occasional temporary redness or mild bruising can occur.
Preparation
No special preparation is required.
Appointment Duration
20 minutes
Recommended Number
3 treatments are needed with 1-2 weeks between treatments. A further course of treatment can be given if needed. We usually wait 6 weeks between treatment course.
Aftercare
No special aftercare is required. Does not require time off work and normal activities can be resumed straightaway. Tendinopathy patients will usually be doing special exercises and have an activity programme in place.
Evidence
SHOCK WAVE THERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF KNEE ARTHRITIS
A review of the available literature in 2020 concluded that shock wave therapy has a beneficial effect on pain relief and on physical function lasting for up to 12 months (Ying-Chun Wang et al Pain Medicine 2020)
Case Stories
In preparation. Please check back later.
