Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a modality used in physical therapy, orthopaedics and sports medicine for the treatment of common musculoskeletal conditions. It is relatively new and catching on quickly due to its success in conditions that sometimes do not respond usual therapy methods.
Shockwaves are movements of extremely high pressure caused by, for example, an explosion, an earthquake or a plane breaking the sound barrier. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is the application of Shockwaves in medicine. Shockwave therapy results in a reduction of pain felt by nerve fibres, an increase of blood circulation in surrounding soft tissues, and a stimulation of the healing process triggered by stem cells activation.
At FusionPhysio, we spent significant time and energy researching Shockwave before purchasing our unit. In the end, we chose the Swiss-made Dolorclast Shockwave system by EMS Medical. Yes, it was considerably more expensive than other units, but we felt the research demonstrated it was superior. There are only 3 Dolorclast Shockwave units in British Columbia, so you can be confident you are getting the best Shockwave treatment there is, right here in Chilliwack.
Shockwave therapy can help a wide range of conditions that are often stubborn with typical physiotherapy treatments. The most common conditions treated with Shockwave are:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Shoulder Tendinopathy and subacromial pain
- Tennis Elbow
- Achilles Tendinopathy (both mid-portion and insertional)
- Low Back Pain
Fusion Physio will do an assessment first to make sure is right for you. Most protocols backed by research suggest 3-5 treatments of Shockwave. Most people tolerate the treatment well, but for some, it can be a little uncomfortable and this can last for a couple of hours.
Due to the extra costs involved in delivering shockwave therapy, there is an additional charge of $25 per session.
