What is Shockwave Therapy?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a clinically proven, non-invasive and pain-free treatment for chronic soft tissue injuries that need more intervention during or post rehabilitation in order to achieve the fullest recovery. It’s suitable for conditions such as Achilles tendon pain, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis/fasciaopathy, shoulder pain (perhaps caused by calcification), and hip pain (glutetus medius tendinopathy).

A non-electrical, non-harmful sound wave passes through the tissue using a hand-held probe. This induces an increase in blood circulation to the target site, breaking down stubborn fibrous scar tissue that has built up over time.  The shockwave therapy acts as an analgesic, gently relieving the pain associated with the condition.

Breaking down inelastic scar tissue, which hinders normal movement and function, is the catalyst that makes Shock Wave Therapy so effective.  When an injury is left untreated, it can cause further damage and pain to surrounding healthy tissue.  Increasing circulation to the injured area stimulates cell regeneration, promotes normal healing and swiftly reduces pain. A series of treatments can restore normal function.

What to expect at your initial consultation

We’ll assess your injury and suitability for the treatment and give you a full explanation of what to expect.  The treatment itself usually lasts for up to 10 minutes, and we will discuss with you whether it’s appropriate for it to be complemented with a relevant hands-on therapy.

 

Does shock wave therapy have side effects or cause pain?

 There are no known side effects with Shock Wave Therapy, and most patients experience a reduction in their existing pain. Rarely, a mild pain or discomfort can be experienced subsequent to treatment, and it may last for up to 24 hours.

Contraindications

Contra-indications include, but are not limited to:

  • Pregnancy (or when trying to conceive)
  • Not suitable under 18 years (consult GP)
  • Cannot be used over areas where metal pins or plates are present
  • Malignant tumour
  • Thrombophilia or other circulatory disorders
  • Nerve related conditions
  • Infections
  • If the patient is taking anticoagulants

There are exceptions to the above and we advise consulting your specialist to confirm suitability for treatment.

 

Why shock wave therapy?

Reports show that 80% of patients experience a marked reduction in pain, and a return to normal function, after only 3 to 4 treatments with Shock Wave Therapy.  We use the Lika Vario Pro, a cutting edge, well-tested, results-heavy machine.

 

Costs for treatment

Initial consultation and 3 sessions of treatment £200.00

Further treatments £70.00 each

(Please note: injuries typically take 3 to 4 treatments for a good resolution)

Patella tendinopathy

Patella tendinopathy

Tennis Elbow

Tennis Elbow

Plantar Fascitis

Plantar Fascitis

Golfers Elbow

Golfers Elbow

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles Tendinopathy

Shoulder Tendinopathy

Shoulder Tendinopathy

Tom Astley

Tom Astley

Sports Physiotherapist & Clinical Director

Tom specialises in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, treating acute and chronic conditions using a combination of exercise rehabilitation, manual therapy and soft tissue therapy. His extensive clinical experience includes working with national team athletes at major sporting competitions including the Commonwealth Games and European Games. Outside of work, Tom enjoys football, cycling and golf.

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Laura Fornoni

Laura Fornoni

Sports & Dance Therapist

BSc Sports & Dance Therapy, London Metropolitan University 2018 Laura is a former gymnast and gymnastic coach with wide-ranging sports experience including rugby and cheerleading.   She’s well-versed in all styles of dance and enjoys enriching her knowledge in new disciplines such as burlesque and circus arts. Laura works with patients from all backgrounds whether they are sedentary or high-performing sports people.

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"Spoke to Tom over the phone for advice on a shoulder injury before going to visit him. I had one appointment and was given a number of exercises to help with my injury. Within 3 weeks everything felt fine and I was back in the gym. Would recommend to any of my friends."

Rachel D

"I’ve been to visit Tom twice with injuries. Both times he has been excellent, offering insight into the injuries, their causes and how to overcome them. With a programme of easy to follow exercises, stretches and general advice I was back out and running much sooner than I first feared."

Andy C

"I had a great post-marathon recovery massage. Before I couldn’t walk up or down stairs. However, after my session I could do both and was back running the next day. Highly recommend."

Mike P

"Many thanks for your help and advice following my recent foot injury. Your careful assessment and follow-up care meant that I have been back to running far quicker than I thought. I also avoided a lengthy wait for x-rays as you rightly assessed my injury as bruising. Highly recommended!"

Tom H

"Having worked with Tom over the past few years I have seen a marked improvement in my knee. Tom’s approach is professional as well as personal and I felt that Tom’s focus on my knee problem along with his high level of knowledge helped me achieve the results required."

Mark W

"Thanks so much Team TAP for all your help and support. With your good work in spite of bad back injury I made it across the finish line"

Ciara F

"Great results from working with Tom Astley Physiotherapy – suffering from RSI and C-tunnel and his exercises and knowledge have been invaluable with huge improvement."

Gavin C

"A month ago I had ITB issues with my knee and given that I couldn't even get through 2 miles I had given up hope on doing the London Marathon. Tom completely turned things around with brilliant advice on strengthening exercises and stretching. I only needed 3 sessions. I did 20 miles unscathed last week and now I am raring to take on the marathon. Top work."