Our Services

Focussed Shockwave Therapy (Ampthill)

What is Focussed Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Therapy or Radial Shockwave Therapy has been successfully treating musculoskeletal conditions for over 30 years.  Focussed Shockwave therapy is the next layer of Technology and is available in our Ampthill Clinic.  Serving Bedfordshire and surrounding areas.

Focussed Shockwave and Shockwave Therapy are safe, non-invasive treatments.  Shock waves are directed to the site of the injury through a special treatment probe. During Shockwave therapy, high energy sound waves are applied to the injured area to break down any scar tissue and calcifications which your body may not be able to repair itself.  As the tissue is broken down by the shock waves the body starts building up a new tissue to replicate the body’s own self -healing process.

What are the differences between Focussed Shockwave and Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave Focussed Shockwave
Larger surface area Faster & Targeted treatment
Shallow penetration (up to 4cm) Deeper penetration (up to 12cm)
Typically 3-6 sessions required Typically 1-3 sessions required
Regular tendons and pain Chronic Pain

The Benefits

  • Pain relief
  • Non surgical
  • Non Invasive
  • No medication
  • Fast Treatment
  • Minimal Complications
  • Succeeds where other treatments have failed
  • 70-90% significant or total resolution in difficult chronic cases

What does it treat?

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Tendinopathies
  • Bone and Stress Fractures
  • Delayed bone-non unions/bone healing
  • Acute injuries
  • Knee & Joint arthritis / Medial Knee OA
  • Osteitis Pubis -Groin Pain
  • Haglunds Deformity
  • Insertional Achilles Pain
  • Tibialis Posterior Tendon Syndrome/ankle sprain
  • Morton Neuroma
  • Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome / Shin Splints
  • Tib Post/ Peroneal Tendons
  • Avascular necrosis of hip
  • Trigger Finger
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Chronic Pelvic Pain
  • Coccydynia
  • Myofascial Pain
  • Urological indications (ED) Male Impotence or Erectile Dysfunction / Chronic Pelvic Pain / Peryonie’s
  • Wound Healing and other dermatological and aesthetic indications

Training required

You must undergo training in the use of Shockwave and Focussed Shockwave treatment for chronic tendon problems

FAQ

How long do treatments sessions last?

The actual shockwave treatment is quick and non-invasive it usually takes between 4-8 minutes to deliver, initial sessions usually last up to 30 minutes and can include:

  • Education about managing chronic tendon pain
  • Manual therapy
  • Specific exercise programme
  • Focussed Shockwave treatment
  • Post Shockwave advice

Follow up sessions will usually take less time.  The most common focussed shockwave treatment process is 1 to 3 sessions, with 5-10 day interval between treatments. 

How long before I see a difference or am fully recovered?
Some patients see immediate results others see improvements over time, it really depends on the person and the problem.  On average treatments are required once a week for approximately four weeks. In 20-30% of patients there is a chance that they will see no or little improvement as this treatment isn’t for everyone.
Will it hurt?
Treatment can be uncomfortable, but you should not experience pain at a level that cannot be tolerated.  Focussed Shockwave is generally tolerated better than radial Shockwave Therapy when treating chronic pain.  Don’t be concerned if discomfort increases again 2-3 weeks after – this is the repair process.  Do not take NSAID’s (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or ice for 48 hours after the treatment and make sure you take things a little easier. 
Are there any side effects?

Generally, patients do not experience any side effects. Some potential side effects are:

  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Localised discomfort or numbness

These side effects should only last from a few hours to a few days.

  • There is a very small risk of tendon or ligament rupture in some cases
Will I be able to go back to work/drive immediately after treatment?
Yes, in the majority of cases there should be no reason you cannot carry on with your day-to-day activity as normal, however as with any treatment we would recommend you take things a little easier after treatment.
Are there any conditions that would prevent me having Shockwave Therapy?

Yes, you are unable to receive Focussed Shockwave therapy if you have any of the following and must inform your physiotherapist immediately:

  • Under 18 years of age
  • Haemophilia
  • Anticoagulant Medication
  • Active blood clots (DVT)
  • Pregnancy or trying to conceive
  • Active Cancer disease
  • Corticosteroid Injection in the last 6 weeks
  • Pacemaker Fitted
What should I wear for treatment?
As with a physiotherapy session we recommend loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the problem area.  
Do I need to bring anything else with me?
No, just bring yourself.
How do I know if this treatment is right for me?
Your Clinician will be able to advise if this treatment is for you.  The treatment isn’t for everybody, its generally used when a patient hasn’t responded to traditional therapies and the have been struggling with their condition for at least 6 months.