What is Radial Shockwave Therapy?

 

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This is an excellent non- invasive treatment method with very few negative side effects. It is used for conditions that are normally very difficult to treat and have caused significant pain and immobility. Podiatrist Matthew Rimmer has been trained to use radial shockwave therapy to treat chronic (longstanding) heel pain, Achilles’ tendon pain and injury, shin splints and patella tendon pain.

What are the benefits of Shockwave Treatment?

This therapy works without the use of X-rays or drugs; it stimulates the body's natural self-healing process. There is very often an immediate reduction of pain and improved ease of movement.

Matthew Rimmer Podiatry utilizes Chattanooga RPW Technology for providing radial shockwave therapy. The shockwaves are generated with a precision ballistic mechanism in the hand piece which accelerates a projectile by compressed air. The motion and weight of the projectile produce kinetic energy which translates along with the transmitter into sound energy in the form of an acoustic wave. The acoustic wave is transmitted into the tissue via a coupling gel and collectively this is known as “Radial Pressure Wave Therapy”. The propagating acoustic waves functionally stimulate increased blood flow and metabolic activity within the cell.

How long does the treatment last?

2000 shocks are administered per session, which last approximately 5 minutes. Shockwave therapy is performed during part of a treatment session which will last up to 30 minutes and may include other treatment modalities such as manual therapy or exercise therapy depending on the condition being treated.

How many treatments will I need?

Normally four to eight treatments are necessary at weekly intervals. 

Does the treatment hurt?
It is a 5-minute treatment that may be a little uncomfortable. Matthew will monitor you throughout the treatment and adjust the intensity as needed.

Will it hurt after the treatment?

There may be no immediate pain, but some discomfort may be experienced 2-4 hours after the treatment. In some cases it can last up to 48 hours and in very rare cases, the pain can last up to 5 days.You will be carefully monitored.

What should I do if I am in pain after the treatment?

The shockwave will trigger an inflammatory response, which is the body's natural process of healing. For this reason, do not use anti-inflammatory medications. Do not use ice. The pain should subside within 24 hours. 

What if it feels good after the treatment?

Even if it feels good, we recommend decreased activity for 48 hours following the treatment

What is the success rate of this kind of treatment?

A successful treatment is considered as a patient having at least 75% reduction in pain within 3 months. Worldwide, success rates are around 80 to 90%.

What if it doesn't work for me?

Although the short-term effects alone are exceptional, the long-term benefits of this treatment may take up to 3-4 months. Matthew will devise a comprehensive treatment plan that may involve stretching exercises, manual therapy, innersoles/orthotics in order to give you the best possible outcome. Shockwave therapy may only be one part of a comprehensive  treatment plan.

How does it work?

1) Treatment produces an inflammatory response. The body responds by increasing metabolic activity around the site of pain. This stimulates and accelerates the healing process.

2) Shockwave breaks down scar tissue and possibly calcification as well

3) Transmission of pain is blocked.

Shock wave therapy is thought to work by inducing microtrauma to the tissue. This microtrauma initiates a healing response by the body. The healing response causes blood vessel formation and increased delivery of nutrients to the affected area. The microtrauma is thought to stimulate a repair process and relieve the symptoms of pain.

Are there contraindications and/or precautions?

As with any treatment, it is not suitable for everyone. Matthew will assess you thoroughly and decided if you will be suitable for this type of treatment.
The may contraindications are:

• Coagulation disorders, thrombosis, heart or circulatory patients
• Use of anticoagulants, especially Marcumar, Heparin, Coumadin
• Tumour diseases, carcinoma, cancer patients
• Pregnancy
• Polyneuropathy in case of diabetes mellitus
• Acute inflammations / pus focus in the target area
• Children in growth
• Cortisone therapy up to 6 weeks before first treatment

Possible Side effects which are quite rare


• Swelling, reddening, haematomas
• Pain
• Skin lesions after previous cortisone therapy
• These side effects generally abate after 5 to 10 days