Shockwave Therapy for Achilles Tendon Pain in Gladstone
Achilles tendon pain can make walking, running and everyday activity uncomfortable. If you are considering shockwave therapy in Gladstone, start with an assessment of the cause of your pain and the treatment options that suit you.
What is Achilles tendinopathy?
The Achilles tendon joins your calf muscles to your heel. Tendinopathy can cause pain and stiffness when the tendon struggles with the load placed on it. Symptoms may occur where it attaches to the heel (insertional tendinopathy) or higher in the tendon (midportion tendinopathy). People also use the term Achilles tendonitis, although tendinopathy is often the more appropriate name.
An assessment helps distinguish tendon pain from other causes. Physiotherapy may include changes to activity and an individual exercise programme to build the tendon’s capacity. Progress and recovery time vary. See Sherwood Forest Hospitals’ Achilles tendinopathy information.
Where does shockwave therapy fit?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) uses a device to deliver mechanical waves through the skin to the treatment area. It may be considered when symptoms persist despite other care, alongside a rehabilitation plan.
Results are not guaranteed. NICE’s 2016 guidance on ESWT for Achilles tendinopathy describes uncertain effectiveness and evidence limitations. Discuss expected benefits, alternatives and how progress will be reviewed with your clinician. A promise of faster healing, a permanent cure or avoiding surgery would go beyond what that guidance establishes.
What should you discuss before treatment?
Ask whether shockwave therapy is appropriate for your diagnosis, what the proposed course involves, and how it fits with exercise and activity advice. Tell your clinician about your medicines, medical conditions, previous tendon injuries and other recent treatments.
Treatment can be uncomfortable. Possible effects include local redness, bruising, swelling or numbness, and symptoms can worsen. Rare tendon or soft tissue injury is also reported. Guy’s and St Thomas’ patient guide explains these risks. Your clinician should discuss the risks relevant to you before you decide.
When to seek urgent care
A sudden feeling of being kicked in the calf, severe new heel pain or swelling, or difficulty pushing off your foot can indicate a tendon rupture. Seek urgent medical assessment at an emergency department rather than waiting for a routine physiotherapy appointment. This warning is also covered in the Sherwood Forest Hospitals guide linked above.
Common appointment questions
How many sessions will I need?
The proposed course depends on your assessment and response. Ask about the number, spacing and cost of sessions, and when the plan will be reviewed.
Will shockwave therapy replace rehabilitation?
Discuss its role within your overall care plan. Do not assume a procedure replaces the exercise and activity advice agreed with your physiotherapist.
Will insurance cover it?
Confirm the clinic’s fees and check your own fund’s eligibility and limits before booking. Coverage should not be assumed.
Discuss your options at PhysioCall in Gladstone
PhysioCall is at 25 Philip Street, South Gladstone. Read about our shockwave therapy service, learn about Joshua Iaquinto, or book a physiotherapy assessment to discuss your symptoms and options. Call 07 4962 0411 for appointment enquiries.
