Radial Shock Wave Therapy
RSWT has been extensively researched and has been proven to be an effective treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal pains including, but not exclusively: tendinopathies of the foot, achilles, knee, shoulder, and hip.
If you are continuing to experience a stubborn pain or injury that has been too slow to resolve – we would highly recommend you give RSWT a try!
What is RSWT and how does it work?
Radial Shockwave therapy uses high pressure acoustic shockwaves that travel through the skin to deeper structures. The depth can vary between a few millimetres, to 5- 8 centimetres. The Practitioner will determine what is the appropriate depth at the time of your treatment.
The acoustic waves assist with breaking down scar tissue, as well as stimulate new cell production, resulting in new collagen production. Essentially RSWT helps kick start the body’s natural healing process. It is also very effective for reducing pain and inflammation, increases circulation to an area and may also be used to break down calcium deposits.
What can it help with?
Research has shown RSWT is effective for the treatment of:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinopathy
- Patella (knee) tendon pain
- Hip bursitis and tendon pain
- Arthritis of knees
- Foot and toe conditions
- Chronic sacroiliac joint pain
Ask your Physio if RSWT is suitable for you.
Book your Radial Shock Wave Therapy Session Online.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What will I feel?
A hand -held transducer is used on your skin, a vibration will be felt in the area being treated. Your therapist will work close to, but not on your precise area of pain initially. This creates a mild analgesic effect as your pain starts to settle. Once you are comfortable with the sensation, your therapist will then work gently into the area a little more. On average, it takes one minute for your body to adjust to the treatment, it is paused, and then the therapy is commenced again.
How long will it take?
The entire session of using this therapy may last 10 – 15 minutes. This is also dependent on the specific area being treated and how many areas are being treated in one session. If it is a very local smaller area, the treatment required may only be for 7 – 8 minutes, sometimes less. Once you have had your first session using RSWT it can then be integrated into your Physio Session.
What should I expect after the session?
You may experience less pain, almost immediately. If you are slightly sore the next day, it is very important not to take anti-inflammatories as you are wanting new cells and tissue for the healing response to kickstart. Ice can be applied to the area if required.
How many sessions do I need to have?
The research supports once per week for three weeks. For longstanding pain, you may require a further three treatments at fortnightly, or monthly follow ups.
Contraindications for Radial Shockwave Therapy
- Pregnancy
- It is not used over the abdomen.
- It cannot be used locally over any joint replacements.
- It is not used on an acute injury.
- Not used within six weeks of a cortisone injection
- Not used if you have a blood coagulation disorder.
- It can be used for DOMS: muscles soreness after intensive training.
Is RSWT claimable off My Health Fund?
This modality is claimable as it is will be used as part of your Physiotherapy Session.
