Radial Shockwave Therapy: A Proven Treatment for Persistent Pain
Radial shockwave therapy (RSWT) is an evidence-based treatment used to tackle chronic pain and stubborn musculoskeletal conditions.
At Advantage Physiotherapy in Aylesbury, this non-invasive treatment is helping clients return to movement without the need for injections or surgery. But what can radial shockwave therapy help with? In this blog, we will explore how this innovative approach offers relief for several common and debilitating conditions.
What Is Radial Shockwave Therapy?
Radial shockwave therapy involves applying acoustic pressure waves to injured soft tissue. These waves stimulate blood flow, promote tissue regeneration, and help break down calcific deposits.
Unlike focused shockwave therapy, which penetrates deeper into the body, radial shockwave therapy disperses the waves over a wider area, making it ideal for treating conditions near the surface.
At Advantage Physiotherapy, radial shockwave therapy is used alongside a tailored rehabilitation plan to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of recurring pain.
Radial Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially in runners, active individuals, or people who spend long hours on their feet. This condition involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.
While rest, orthotics, and stretching exercises can sometimes ease the pain, persistent cases may require a more targeted solution.
Radial shockwave therapy has been shown to significantly reduce heel pain by promoting healing in the plantar fascia. The acoustic waves help to break the cycle of chronic inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. For patients who have tried conventional treatments with limited success, radial shockwave therapy can provide much-needed relief.
How Radial Shockwave Therapy Helps Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, affects not just athletes but anyone who uses their forearm muscles repetitively—such as decorators, gardeners, or office workers. The condition involves micro-tears and inflammation in the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, leading to pain and reduced function.
Radial shockwave therapy helps reduce elbow pain by encouraging collagen production and reducing inflammation in the affected tendon. Clients at Advantage Physiotherapy often report reduced discomfort and improved grip strength after a course of RSWT, enabling them to return to work or hobbies without restriction.
Using Radial Shockwave Therapy for Calcific Shoulder Tendinitis
Calcific shoulder tendinitis occurs when calcium deposits build up in the rotator cuff tendons, causing intense pain and restricted movement. It often affects people between the ages of 30 and 50 and can severely limit daily activities such as dressing or lifting objects.
Radial shockwave therapy helps to break down these calcified deposits, reducing inflammation and restoring normal function in the shoulder joint. At Advantage Physiotherapy, this treatment is part of a holistic shoulder rehabilitation plan that also includes mobility exercises and manual therapy, designed to enhance overall outcomes.
Radial Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles’ tendinopathy is another common overuse injury, especially among runners and active individuals. It presents as pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, typically worse after periods of inactivity or prolonged exercise. Left untreated, it can become chronic and significantly impact mobility.
Radial shockwave therapy delivers mechanical energy to the Achilles tendon, promoting cellular regeneration and improving circulation. This helps reduce pain and stiffness over time. Advantage Physiotherapy uses radial shockwave therapy as a key part of its approach to treating Achilles issues, helping patients get back to walking, running, or training with confidence.
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What to Expect from Radial Shockwave Therapy at Advantage Physiotherapy?
When you attend a session at Advantage Physiotherapy, your clinician will begin with a thorough assessment to determine whether radial shockwave therapy is appropriate for your condition. If RSWT is recommended, a handheld device is used to deliver shockwaves to the affected area.
Most patients experience a tingling sensation or mild discomfort during treatment, which typically lasts around 10–15 minutes. A course of three to six sessions is usually recommended for optimal results, spaced at weekly intervals.
Because radial shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, you may notice gradual improvement over several weeks—even after the course of treatment ends.
Is Radial Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Radial shockwave therapy is ideal for people with chronic pain that has not responded to conventional treatment. It is particularly effective for conditions involving tendon or ligament injury.
However, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, such as blood clotting disorders or those who are pregnant.
The physiotherapy team at Advantage Physiotherapy will assess your individual circumstances and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Book Your Radial Shockwave Therapy Assessment Today
If you are dealing with stubborn pain in your foot, elbow, shoulder, or Achilles’ tendon, radial shockwave therapy may be the solution you have been looking for.
With expert care and modern facilities in Aylesbury, Advantage Physiotherapy offers personalised, effective treatment to help you move better and feel better.
Book your consultation today to find out how radial shockwave therapy could help you regain your mobility and quality of life.