PHYSIOTHERAPY – SHOCKWAVE THERAPY.

Shockwave therapy, also known as Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a clinically proven and effective treatment for chronic or persistent soft tissue injuries.

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave is a non-invasive, acoustic wave which carries high energy through the body to painful tissues with subacute, sub chronic, and chronic conditions. The energy stimulates regeneration and reparative processes to promote tissue healing. Simultaneously there is often a period of reduced pain in this area.

What Does Focused Shockwave Therapy treat?

Shockwave Therapy is offered to patients who have had their pain for several months and are not improving with other treatments such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and activity modification. Shockwave therapy is designed for stubborn tendon issues that are not improving. Tendons compared to muscles have a relatively poor blood supply, so it is not unusual for them to take several months, or even years to improve. Shockwave therapy can speed up this healing process and get patients back on track.

• Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
• High Hamstring Tendinopathy
• Shoulder Pain, e.g. Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s elbow)
• Patella Tendinopathy
• Achillies Tendinopathy
• Hip Pain

Focused Shockwave Vs Radial Shockwave

The Boxgrove Clinic has invested in the more modern Focused Shockwave Therapy equipment. This is improved technology over the older Radial Shockwave equipment. Outlined below are the key differences:

Focused

Radial

  • High energy density
  • Deep reach up to 12cm
  • Mild discomfort well tolerated by patients
  • Requires fewer treatments
  • Focused treatment area
  • Fast impulse
  • Cavitation effect
  • Stimulation of growth factors
  • Low energy density
  • Superficial treatment 3 to 4 cm
  • Painful treatment with low patient tolerance
  • Often requires more treatment sessions
  • Wider, less targeted treatment area
  • Slow impulse
To book an appointment with our Physiotherapist at our Chichester clinic, call one of our friendly receptionists on 01243 696 630 or email reception@theboxgrove.com.

Initial Consultation

£83Approx 60 mins
  • An initial consultation to assess suitability.

Single Treament

£150single session
  • A single session of Shockwave Therapy.

3 Treatment Package

£300three sessions
  • Three sessions of Shockwave Therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will carry out the Shockwave Treatment?

Your Shockwave treatment will be carried out by one of our highly specialised Physiotherapists. They have received specialised training in Shockwave therapy and have extensive experience in treating stubborn, chronic complaints.

Does the treatment hurt?

We use Focused Shockwave Therapy which is generally considered to be better tolerated than Radial Shockwave. There may be a slight feeling of discomfort during the treatment. The treatment application lasts 6-8 minutes, and most patients can tolerate this. Additionally, the intensity of the treatment can be adjusted throughout the session to ensure it is at a tolerable level for each individual. When used correctly, the side effects from shockwave therapy are minimal and uncommon.

How many treatments will I need?

NICE guidelines, suggest that it often takes 3 or more sessions to resolve an issue. The number of treatments will vary depending on indication and tissue response. The effect of treatment is cumulative, so you will typically need more than one session but you may well experience some relief right after the first treatment.

During treatment your Physiotherapist will also reccomend appropriate loading exercises that should accompany the treatment. (Usually carried out 48 hours after the Shockwave).

How far apart will the treatments be?

We will aim to schedule sessions around a week apart, depending on patient’s tolerance and tissue response.

Are there any restrictions after treatment?

It is recommended that patients refrain from physical activity, for 48 hours following each treatment session.

The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, for this reason, do NOT use anti-inflammatory medication or ice. Any discomfort should subside within 24hours. Use paracetamol if needed if you can take this medication.

How much is it likely to cost?

We recommend that patients book 3 consecutive weekly sessions as a package. This will be a one–off amount for the package and will cost £300 for self-funders.

Are there people who can’t have Shockwave therapy?

There are a few occasions when Shockwave should not be used. Your Physiotherapist will make sure this is assessed at the initial consultation and that Shockwave is deemed appropriate.

Will my private health insurance cover Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy is covered by most major insurers. Please contact your insurance company to see whether you are covered on your plan.

Please note, as with all insurance claims, authorisation must be gained before committing to any course of treatment, and a claim number will be required when booking.

How do I make a booking?

If you are already under the care of one of our Physiotherapists, please discuss your suitability in your next consultation.

If you are new to The Boxgrove Clinic, you will need to have an initial assessment with one of our Chartered Physiotherapists to discuss your condition and decide whether Shockwave therapy is appropriate.

If you have any other questions please email us at reception@theboxgrove.com or call us in confidence on 01243 696 630.