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Extra Corporeal Shockwave Therapy

Extra corporeal shockwave therapy is used by foot specialists for the treatment of a wide variety of painful orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions. It provides fast pain relief and can be effective in mobility restoration. The treatment delivers high energy acoustic waves which are capable of promoting regeneration and repair in bones, tissues and tendons. Extra corporeal shockwave therapy is a non-surgical procedure which can speed up recovery and negate the need for painkillers.

Is this procedure for me?

In general extra corporeal shockwave therapy is a treatment for diseases, conditions and musculoskeletal pain that involves connective tissues that are attached to the bone. It is usually advised when conservative treatments such as ice therapy, rest, painkillers, steroid injections or physiotherapy have proven to be ineffective in providing relief.

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Indications

Extra corporeal shockwave therapy can treat conditions such as; heel spur, painful shoulder, tennis elbow, jumper’s knee, chronic tendinopathy, medial tibial stress syndrome, insertional pain, and hip pain.

PROCEDURE

The location of the area which is to be treated is typically confirmed using a physical examination prior to the procedure. The therapy can then be delivered precisely. A sufficient volume of gel is then applied to the area targeted area, in order to ensure the smooth and efficient transfer of the acoustic waves. The therapy stage of the process is then initiated, with the shockwave applicator being pushed gently against the target area. Once the start button has been pressed, the shockwave treatment will begin.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

Following the procedure, patients can stand up and walk without assistance. There is typically no need for medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or ice therapy, as these treatments can actually interfere with the healing process after extra corporeal shockwave therapy. You can resume daily activities straight away, while intense physical exercises should be avoided for two days.

The vast majority of patients report a noticeable improvement in their condition after just one extra corporeal shockwave therapy session. Following a second treatment, the success rate for extra corporeal shockwave therapy is recognised as around 90 per cent.

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Risks and complications

The extra corporeal shockwave therapy has almost no side effects when carried out correctly. It is a non-invasive technique which does not require anaesthesia or medication. In some cases, patients might experience a slight tingling sensation, small degree of swelling or bruising, redness, or warmth, after the procedure. When they are experienced, these effects will subside within a few days.

Swiss DolorClast® Wound KO Method Brochure (FA-381/EN) – ENGLISH

Swiss DolorClast® Wound KO Method Brochure (FA-381/EN) – ENGLISH

Swiss DolorClast® Patient-Brochure (FA-138/EN) – ENGLISH

Swiss DolorClast® Classic – EN

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Ankle pain can be distressing, especially if you're not sure what options are open to you. If you're wondering if surgery could help you, book an appointment.

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Hear what our patients have to say

Mr Ajis is a great surgeon, he listens to any concern you may have and explains what is going to happen also gives great care... He suggested a fairly new procedure that wasn't available on the NHS but he pushed me through and he and his team have worked wonders, I am now healing very well and pain-free in my ankle after 6 years!

Written by a patient at BMI Goring Hall Hospital

Mr Ajis was very informative and reassuring about my surgery. He was professional at all times and allowed time for me to have all my questions answered without feeling rushed.

Written by a patient at BMI Goring Hall Hospital

I saw Mr Ajis after sustaining a fracture of my 5th metatarsal which had not healed after a year. The pain was unbearable. He saw me promptly and took the time to explain my condition with the help of x-ray images with assurances that he could fix the problem. I was advised by other clinicians to be patient and wait for the fracture to heal on its own. Mr Ajis said that healing would be highly unlikely without intervention. After numerous emails and 'phone calls to him he constantly...

...spent the time reassuring me and patiently going over the intended procedure. To date after seeking advice and guidance from Mr Ajis, his secretary and the Physio Team and the insertion of a plate my fracture has united I walk well, without pain and I have joined a walking group.