Do you remember that old saying: “If your tendinitis becomes chronic you will have to live with it forever”? Well, that is now a thing of the past. Shockwave therapy has completely changed the game. This type of therapy has become increasingly popular for the management of acute, chronic and calcifying tendinopathies in recent years. This non-invasive treatment option involves the use of acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and reduce pain and inflammation.

In addition to promoting healing, shockwave therapy can also help to break up scar tissue and calcifications that may have formed in the affected area. This can help to restore normal function and range of motion to the affected joint or muscle.

One of the primary benefits of shockwave therapy is that it is a non-surgical treatment option. Unlike surgery, which involves incisions and a lengthy recovery period, shockwave therapy does not require any incisions or anaesthesia. This means that there is no need for extended downtime or recovery, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment.

Another benefit of shockwave therapy is that it is a relatively quick treatment option. A typical shockwave therapy session lasts only about 15 minutes, and most patients require only a few sessions to see significant results. Other treatment options for tendinopathies, such as physical therapy or corticosteroid injections, can require weeks or even months of treatment to see results.

Shockwave therapy is a versatile treatment option that can be effective for a variety of tendinopathies. This includes common conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, gluteal tendinopathy, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff tendinopathy amongst others.

Treatment typically involves several sessions, spaced out over several weeks. The number of sessions needed will depend on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual response to treatment. Patients may experience some discomfort during the treatment, but this is typically mild and short-lived. Most patients are able to return to normal activities within a few days of treatment.

Overall, shockwave therapy is a promising treatment option for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders, particularly tendinopathies. It is a non-invasive, safe, and effective way to promote healing and reduce pain without the need for surgery or other more invasive treatments. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your joints or muscles, talk to a qualified healthcare practitioner to see if shockwave therapy may be right for you.