What is ESWT?
ESWT is a procedure where a form of shockwaves are passed through the skin to the injured or painful part of the body. Shockwaves are low-energy sound waves, which work by increasing blood flow to the injured area. This speeds up your body’s healing process. You will usually require a course of 3-6 treatments, 1-2 weeks apart.
Why should I have ESWT?
ESWT is a noninvasive treatment option that is often used in conjunction with physical therapy for tendon, muscle and other soft tissue pain and abnormalities. It is a safe treatment with clinical benefits with no downtime compared to other treatment options.
What are the risks/side effects?
You will experience some discomfort during the treatment, but most patients tolerate this very well. Following the treatment, you may experience more pain, redness, bruising, swelling and numbness to the area in the first 1-3 days. These side effects should resolve within a week, before your next treatment.
You should not receive EWST if you:
• are pregnant
• are taking antiplatelets excluding aspirin 81mgs (for example, Clopidogrel) or anticoagulants (such as Warfarin or Rivaroxaban)
• have a blood clotting disorder
• have open growth plates
• have been diagnosed with bone cancer or are being treated for active cancer
• have an infection in the area of pain
• have a history of tendon or ligament rupture in the area of pain
• have had a steroid injection into the affected area in the previous 12 weeks
These will be discussed with you by your healthcare professional when the treatment is offered. Your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure with you in more detail — please let them know if you have any questions or would like any further information.
How can I prepare for ESWT?
You will need to be available for the full course of treatment. Treatments will take 3-7 minutes and are performed 1-2 weeks apart. You should not take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, for two weeks before your first procedure, and throughout your treatment if you are able. We recommend the use acetaminophen for pain during the course of treatment.
Who will carry out the procedure?
Your ESWT will be carried out by a fellowship-trained physician who has undertaken special training to carry out the procedure.
What happens during ESWT?
The physician performing the treatment will put ultrasound gel on the injured area and then place the hand piece of the device on the gel. The ESWT is delivered using this hand piece — it delivers compressed air pulses through the ultrasound gel.
Will I feel any pain?
Most patients do experience some pain or discomfort during the procedure. You will be asked how much pain you are experiencing during the treatment, and we will try to adjust the treatment to help manage the pain.
What happens after ESWT?
After the treatment you will be able to get up and walk straight away. If you do experience discomfort following the shockwave treatment, you can take over-the-counter painkillers (such as acetaminophen/Tylenol). Do not take anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen/Advil, Naproxen/Aleve or Meloxicam) or use ice therapy as these can interfere with the body’s healing process.
What do I need to do after I go home?
You will be able to return to your usual activities including returning to work straight away. However, we advise you not to undertake any strenuous, pain-provoking activity or high-impact exercise for 48 hours after the procedure.
Will I have a follow-up appointment?
You will have a follow-up appointment with your physician to monitor your symptoms and progress.
Is ESWT covered by insurance?
No. ESWT is not covered by insurance companies at this time therefore will be an out-of-pocket expense. Scan the below QR code for pricing options. For additional pricing questions, please call: 317.419.6019.
Are there any studies to support the use of ESWT?
Yes. There are several studies to support the use of ESWT for multiple different conditions. Click the below links for a couple of studies reviewing the use of ESWT.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides exceptional care tailored to our patients’ needs. With over 40 years of experience, our team of providers and clinicians know the importance of putting patients first. Our flexibility and comprehensive services mean you can see a physician, get diagnostic imaging, and start treatment all in one convenient location. Contact us today to request an appointment. We’ll help you take the next step toward a pain-free life.
