Shockwave Therapy Swiss DolorClast
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Non invasive Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) delivers abrupt, high amplitude pulses of mechanical energy.
This type of procedure is beneficial for tendinopathies and has been reported to have a 60- 80% success rate (1).
At the Ankle and Foot Centre we use the Swiss Dolorclast Machine, this machine is FDA approved and has been involved throughout the literature and is considered one of the best shockwave therapy units.
Shockwave therapy is used to treat:
Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Spurs / Plantar Fasciiosis
Achilles Tendinopathy
Shin Splints
Trigger Point release
Interdigital Neuroma
Plantar Fibroma
How does Shockwave Therapy Work?
To understand how shockwave works it is important to understand what tendon pathology is click here for a detailed explanation of tendinopathy.
It is theorised that the shockwave disrupts the disorganisation of the collagen fibres causing healing to occur see picture below.
Common questions about shockwave therapy
Q. Will shockwave make my pain instantly go away?
A. In many instances the area treated will have an instant analgesic affect. Maximal benefit with this type of therapy is sometimes seen weeks later.
Q. Will I be able to walk afterwards?
A. This procedure generally does not require any reduction in activity and there are very little side effects
Q. What kind of injury does this treatment work for?
A. This procedure is ideal for chronic soft tissue disorders including plantar fasciitis, heel pain, Achilles pain, some forefoot pain, plantar fibromatosis
Q. How many treatment sessions will I need?
A. The number of sessions depend on when there is resolution in the pain and generally range between 1 to 5 sessions
Q. How much does shockwave therapy cost?
A. One shockwave therapy session costs $70 extra on top of a normal consultation fee
The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre’s Northcote Podiatrists can help you with all lower limb complaints. Make an appointment to get your foot and ankle pain under control.
Shockwave Therapy Servicing the areas of Northcote, Thornbury, Fitzroy, North Fitzroy, Carlton, North Carlton, Alphington, Fairfield, Brunswick, Coburg and Preston
Call The Ankle, Foot and Orthotic Centre for diagnosis and advice on professional management and treatment options.
Contact us today on (03) 9482 5196
References
- Notarnicola A, Moretti B. The biological effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (eswt) on tendon tissue. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2012;2(1):33-7.