Extracorporeal Radial Shockwave Therapy
|
What is extracorporeal radial shockwave therapy?Since the early 1900's investigators in Europe have studied the use of shockwaves for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Initially, treatments were administered using modified kidney stone lithotripters. Today, machines such as the MP50 use advanced technology but, the concept remains the same. Used by professional sports teams and high level athletes around the world, shockwave therapy treats the involved area using pneumatically generated acoustic waves traveling faster than the speed of sound. This bombarding of the affected tissue produces a number of biological responses resulting in scientifically demonstrated neovascularization (new blood vessel growth) which in turn dramatically accelerates the healing process. | |||||||||||||||
Could you describe the treatment process?A course of Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) typically consists of four visits - three treatment sessions administered over a three week period after your initial assessment. The painful site is identified and approximately two thousand shockwaves are administered using a hand held applicator in combination with a conductive gel. The process is relatively pain free and can be adjusted for patient comfort. Remember, these are sound "shocks", not electrical shocks. The treatment lasts between five and seven minutes. Occasionally a fourth treatment is indicated and if required is provided at a reduced rate. | |||||||||||||||
What conditions can Shockwave be used to treat?
| |||||||||||||||
How fast does RSWT
work? The response to treatment varies from one individual to another. Many patients experience significant relief after one treatment, while others may require three treatments. The healing with RSWT is a cumulative process; therefore, patients continue to have results weeks after ending their treatment. RSWT produces cellular breakdown and hence a subsequent rebuilding or healing process, for this reason maximum relief is usually felt at the twelfth week after the last treatment. | |||||||||||||||
Are there any side effects to RSWT?Minor pain and discomfort during and immediately after the treatment are the most commonly reported adverse side effects. Also commonly noted is a reddening of the skin in the area treated. These typical side effects are relatively short lived lasting no longer than four to twenty four hours. | |||||||||||||||
Are there contraindications or precautions with RSWT?Yes, RSWT is not for everyone. You should consult with your physiotherapist prior to initiating treatment. Contraindications include the following:
| |||||||||||||||
Has Radial Shockwave Therapy been clinically proven?RSWT has been subjected to more valid scientific study than any other modality in physical medicine. The results far exceed other types of modalities and have been published in numerous well respected medical journals. Here are a few examples: 91% success rate calcific tendonitis of the shoulder Journal of American Medical Association 2003 90% success rate plantar fasciitis The Journal of Orthopaedic Research 2005 77% success rate tennis elbow The Journal of Orthopaedics 2005 | |||||||||||||||
What is the cost of RSWT?For current patients who have already underwent an assessment adding RSWT to your treatment protocol would be an additional $420 and would include three RSWT treatments. For new patients or conditions not yet assessed there would be an additional assessment fee of $80 added to the RSWT fee. Return to top of page |
RSWT is administered by a registered physiotherapist and is an affordable treatment option. In addition the vast majority of extended health insurance plans, motor vehicle insurance and WSIB will cover all or a portion of the treatment. If requested, a quote can be provided for preapproval with your insurance company.
At present this service is only being offered at our Brock Street location in Whitby. If you have further questions please direct them to 905-666-8270 and one of the physiotherapists will be pleased to speak to you.
