At The Alignment Studio, we offer shockwave therapy as a non-invasive treatment option to accelerate healing, fast-track your rehab and get you back to your favourite sport or activity sooner.
For a non-invasive, evidence-backed treatment to relieve pain, try shockwave therapy in Melbourne CBD. Backed by substantive research, the popular treatment is widely used in sports medicine and a favourite of our physios for targeting conditions in tendons, bones and muscles.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) and focused shockwave therapy (FSWT) are all forms of shockwave treatment. They use acoustic shock waves (high-energy sound waves) to target problem areas in our bodies.
These waves penetrate deep into the tissues and help to:
Radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy is typically used to treat more superficial areas. Whereas focused shockwave therapy targets deeper tissue within the body.
Whether you’re struggling with muscle pain, tendon issues or stubborn trigger points, shockwave therapy helps by sending pulses into the affected area to reduce pain and assist recovery.
Performed by our physios, it’s a safe procedure with fast and lasting results.
There is significant, high-level evidence to support the benefits of shockwave therapy in treating musculoskeletal conditions. Especially fascia- and tendon-related pain.
Patients suffering from the following will benefit:
So how does it work? High-intensity shock waves help jumpstart our body’s healing process and promote tissue regeneration. When powerful acoustic waves hit the affected area, they boost blood flow to help deliver oxygen and nutrients where they’re needed.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy also triggers the release of Substance P, which is key for pain relief and inflammation control. The treatment stimulates the formation of new blood vessels and collagen while activating growth factors that assist tissue repair.
Shock wave therapy treatment can provide rapid pain relief lasting for several days after each visit. And, by reducing chronic inflammation and encouraging long-term recovery, it doesn’t just mask symptoms, but helps you heal.
During a typical session, your physiotherapist will:
Apply a contact gel to the treatment area. This helps the shock waves penetrate the tissue more effectively.
Use a handheld device to deliver the shock waves directly to the affected area. The process usually takes 10-30 minutes, making it a relatively quick and convenient treatment.
You might feel mild discomfort, but most people find it manageable. Your qualified physiotherapist will guide you through the whole process to ensure the procedure runs smoothly and you are as comfortable as possible.
Does shockwave therapy work? Yes, particularly for tendinopathies and foot conditions. Randomised clinical trials report improvements in stubborn conditions for up to 80% of people studied.
According to Podiatry Today, retrospective analysis found an 80-88% success rate for ESWT in significantly reducing heel pain from plantar fasciitis.
Some of the key benefits of shockwave therapy are:
The procedure is non-invasive. No need for incisions, anaesthesia or an extensive recovery period.
If you've been dealing with consistent pain, this treatment can help when others (such as pain medication) have been unsuccessful.
Many patients see a significant improvement in their pain after completing shockwave therapy.
There's no need to take time off, and you can return to your day-to-day quickly.
The shock waves stimulate new blood vessel growth and improve oxygen flow to the affected area.
The treatment targets the source of your pain, so you can get lasting relief and proper healing.
For most people, shockwave therapy is a safe and tolerable treatment to stimulate healing. But like with any therapy, there can be minor side effects. You might experience mild discomfort, redness or slight swelling in the treated area, but these symptoms are typically short-lived.
While shockwave treatment works well for many, it may not be the right fit for everyone. We recommend an initial consultation with one of our physios to determine if shockwave therapy is the best option for you.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a popular treatment for chronic and stubborn musculoskeletal conditions. At our Melbourne CBD physio clinic, we find it highly effective for long-term issues like plantar fasciitis, as well as in patients with Achilles or patellar tendinopathy, tennis elbow, calcific shoulder tendinitis and rotator cuff conditions.
Our shockwave sessions cost $50. This is added to your physio consultation fee. You can also purchase a 6-pack for $250.
For most patients and musculoskeletal conditions, 3 to 6 shockwave sessions are recommended, spaced 1-2 weeks apart. However, our experienced clinicians will be able to recommend the most effective treatment plan for your specific injury or pain.
Depending on your cover, your private health insurer may offer rebates for shockwave therapy. You may be eligible for a rebate under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan for up to 5 physio sessions, but Medicare does not cover the shockwave component.
Shockwave therapy is not suitable during pregnancy or for anyone with open wounds, infection or tumours near the treatment area. It cannot be performed if you have a bleeding disorder.
With over 25 years of experience, our friendly team is here to help you recover with care and compassion. We also offer complementary services, such as remedial massage, clinical pilates, physiotherapy and podiatry – ensuring you’re in good hands from top to toe.
Contact us today or book online to start healing with shockwave therapy in Melbourne CBD.
