Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy In Adelaide At AC Podiatry
At AC Podiatry Adelaide, we’re proud to offer advanced extracorporeal shockwave therapy as part of our comprehensive treatment options. Our extracorporeal shockwave therapy services provide patients with access to cutting-edge technology for treating chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
What Is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an effective treatment modality used to treat chronic musculoskeletal pathologies. Our advanced extracorporeal shock wave device sends targeted acoustic waves through a handheld piece, which are used to break up scar tissue and calcification whilst stimulating the healing process through vascular growth in tendons and bones.
This process occurs as the tissues release local growth factors and stem cells, facilitating regeneration by breaking down and removing chronic scar tissue that prevents the natural healing process. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy works at the cellular level to promote your body’s own healing mechanisms.
At AC Podiatry, extracorporeal shockwave therapy treatments utilise state-of-the-art technology to ensure optimal treatment outcomes for our patients.
Conditions Treated With Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
Our extracorporeal shockwave therapy is particularly effective for treating:
- Chronic Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Chronic Insertional and mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy
- Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (shin splints)
- Patella syndrome
- Osgood-Schlatter disease
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Acute and chronic soft tissue wounds
- Connective Post-trauma ligamentous damage
These conditions often benefit significantly from extracorporeal shockwave therapy when conservative treatments haven’t provided adequate relief.
How Does Extracorporeal Shock Wave Device Work?
The extracorporeal shock wave device generates acoustic waves that penetrate tissue to stimulate healing at the cellular level. These controlled shock waves create a biological response that includes:
- Increased blood flow to the treated area
- Stimulation of collagen production
- Breakdown of calcific deposits
- Release of endorphins for natural pain relief
- Activation of the body’s healing cascade
The advanced extracorporeal shock wave device allows the podiatrists to precisely control the energy levels and focus the treatment on specific areas requiring healing.
Contraindications For ESWT
While extracorporeal shockwave therapy is generally safe and non-invasive, there are important contraindications including:
- Treatment of air-filled tissue (lungs and stomach)
- Treatment of pre-ruptured tendons
- Pregnancy
- Patients under 18 years (except for Osgood-Schlatter disease)
- Blood clotting disorders or anticoagulant medication
- Local tumours, bacterial, or viral infections
- Recent cortisone treatment
The extracorporeal shockwave therapy team conducts a thorough assessment to ensure treatment safety and appropriateness for each patient.
Effectiveness Of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an effective non-surgical treatment option that can be used alongside conservative treatment modalities.
- Orthotic therapy for biomechanical support
- Dry needling for muscle tension relief
- Mobilisation techniques
- Specialised taping applications
- Footwear modifications
- Targeted stretching and strengthening programmes
Treatment Protocol
Depending on your individual treatment plan, extracorporeal shockwave therapy typically involves three treatment sessions provided once weekly over three weeks. In more complex cases, additional sessions using our extracorporeal shock wave device may be recommended.
Most patients experience pain reduction following extracorporeal shockwave therapy, though the treated area may remain tender initially. Some localised swelling or bruising is normal. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy facilitates natural healing, with maximum benefits typically seen 10-12 weeks after the first session.
What To Expect During Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
Pre-Treatment Assessment
At AC Podiatry, we require a precise diagnosis using X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI before commencing extracorporeal shockwave therapy. This ensures optimal treatment timing and prevents further injury to the area requiring extracorporeal shock wave device intervention.
All patients receive an initial assessment prior to extracorporeal shockwave therapy treatment in Adelaide. Once eligibility is confirmed, you’ll be scheduled for your extracorporeal shock wave device appointments.
During Treatment
The treatment area is palpated and marked before extracorporeal shockwave therapy begins. Water-based gel is applied to ensure optimal extracorporeal shock wave device contact with your skin. Using our handheld device, shockwaves are applied with varying intensities based on the specific area requiring treatment.
Initial extracorporeal shockwave therapy may cause some discomfort, which indicates the extracorporeal shockwave device is targeting the correct treatment area. As treatment progresses, the body’s natural pain relief mechanisms activate, often resulting in numbness or dull sensation in the treated area.
Post-Treatment Care Following Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
Activity Modifications
Following extracorporeal shockwave therapy, it’s essential to avoid harmful or extreme activities during your treatment course. Excessive activity can affect healing quality and potentially compromise extracorporeal shock wave device treatment outcomes.
Continuing Care
If you previously wore orthotics or used offloading devices, continue following your podiatrist’s management plan alongside extracorporeal shockwave therapy.
Realistic Expectations
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy effects develop gradually. Don’t be discouraged if immediate pain relief isn’t experienced, as the extracorporeal shock wave device stimulates healing processes that continue developing over weeks following treatment.
Why Choose AC Podiatry for Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?
Advanced Technology
Our extracorporeal shock wave device represents the latest in therapeutic technology, ensuring you receive the most effective extracorporeal shockwave therapy available. We invest in advanced equipment to provide optimal treatment outcomes.
Expert Assessment
Our extracorporeal shockwave therapy team includes experienced podiatrists who specialise in chronic condition management. As your trusted Adelaide podiatrist, we ensure appropriate treatment protocols for each individual patient.
Integrated Care Approach
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy at AC Podiatry integrates with our comprehensive podiatry Adelaide services, including orthotic therapy, biomechanical assessment and sports podiatry care.
Convenient Locations
Our extracorporeal shockwave therapy services are available across multiple convenient locations throughout Adelaide, making advanced extracorporeal shock wave device treatment accessible when you need it.
Make A Booking
If you’re experiencing chronic foot or lower limb pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatment, extracorporeal shockwave therapy may be appropriate for your condition. Our extracorporeal shock wave device treatments offer a non-surgical option for promoting natural healing.
With multiple Podiatry clinics across Adelaide and the Eastern suburbs, we’re never too far away when you need us. Call for an appointment today to discuss whether extracorporeal shockwave therapy is suitable for your condition.
Our experienced podiatrist Adelaide team is ready to assess your individual needs and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Don’t let chronic pain limit your activities. Experience the benefits of advanced extracorporeal shockwave therapy at AC Podiatry Adelaide.
