Shockwave Therapy Perth

If it feels like you've tried everything but you're still not able to exercise, struggling to walk and move how you want, or are feeling a little lost and unsure where to go from here - shockwave therapy may be the next step for you. Get in touch with us today to find out more.

What is shockwave therapy?

It's a non-invasive treatment that uses rapid pulses (pressure waves) delivered through the skin to promote healing and to reduce pain in injured tissue. We'll typically offer this for ongoing foot, heel, or tendon issues when symptoms haven’t improved with usual treatments (rest, rehabilitation, massage, orthotics) but you want to get back to activity sooner.

Does shockwave therapy work?

Research shows shockwave can significantly reduce pain and improve function in musculoskeletal conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon pain by stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

Originally developed to break up kidney stones, this therapy has since been adapted for sports podiatry due to its ability to break up scar tissue, increase blood flow and stimulate healing. It's a highly effective treatment for conditions including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles pain
  • Tibialis Posterior and Anterior Tendinopathy
  • Peroneal Tendinopathy
  • Shin splints
  • Ligament damage
  • Bursitis

What can shockwave therapy treat?

Shockwave therapy is ideal for active patients looking to stay moving, and get back to sport sooner.

  • Heel pain
  • Achilles pain
  • Tendon-related issues
  • Ongoing foot or ankle conditions
  • Variety of bursitis issues
  • Free up scar tissue around joints and soft tissue
  • Muscle tears
  • Ligament tears

While every case is unique, this is a highly effective, non-invasive procedure with positive outcomes for the majority of patients. We will guide you along the way of what to expect, what's normal and the do's and don'ts.

Case study: Shockwave therapy to target an affected area

We had a patient who trained in CrossFit and was a doctor. They had a tear at their plantar plate (a ligament under the ball of the foot, which plays an important role in stabilising and preventing overextension of the toes). We went ahead with a rehabilitation program including shockwave therapy over several visits, aligned with a carbon fibre plate to reduce motion, so we could get them back doing what they loved faster.

We did an MRI on the treatment site beforehand and 6 months after: the ligament tear had fully healed.

This is of course anecdotal, but there are not many conditions or people shockwave therapy is unsuited for - and we have seen great success with many patients.

Is it right for you?

If other treatments like rehabilitation and rest haven't worked for you, shockwave therapy can ease discomfort and encourage tissue healing and regeneration. If you identify with any of the following:

  • Pain lasting longer than 3-6 months
  • Chronic tendinopathies like Achilles tendon, jumper's knee
  • You have sports injuries (tendon, ligament or soft tissue injuries) and need to recover fast
  • You have calcification issues (deposits in tendons causing pain or affecting mobility)
  • Other conservative treatments have failed you

Then shockwave therapy may be the best next step.

At Functional Foot and Ankle, we thoroughly examine the condition, causation and how we're going to get you better - avoiding unnecessary treatments, keeping it specific and as efficient as possible. If we recommend shockwave therapy, it is always provided alongside a rehabilitation program.

Who it’s not suitable for

Shockwave isn’t recommended if you’re pregnant, have certain nerve or circulation disorders, are on blood thinners, have a local infection or tumour in the area, or if the injury is very acute (recent).

What is the treatment process like?

  1. We start with a thorough assessment of your discomfort, movement, training load, and footwear, along with hands-on testing to accurately diagnose the issue and understand why it’s happening. We will have a discussion around options, or if you have tried them and not worked, we will discuss if shockwave is suited to you.
  2. If your condition is suitable, we’ll explain how shockwave can help, what to expect, and whether it fits into your overall plan.
  3. For most patients, shockwave is somewhat uncomfortable. Though not a guarantee, generally you're in less pain soon after with increased improvement with every visit. We will guide you through it with rehab exercises and advice, typically across a short course of sessions.
  4. We provide clear guidance on activity, recovery, and exercises. After the final shockwave session, we will usually allow 6 weeks off to give your body time to heal. The focus is on progressing your rehab, preventing recurrence, and getting you back to full function as quickly as possible.

How many sessions will you need?

Most patients have 3-6 sessions maximum. That number is guided by the severity, patient response and specific time frames we're working with - so your initial estimate may change for more or less sessions, depending how you respond to the therapy.

A holistic approach to your wellbeing

Shockwave treatment is just one tool in our kit. We pair it with some of the following to get the best outcome for your situation:

  • Footwear advice
  • Activity modification
  • Taping techniques
  • Soft tissue therapy
  • Mobilisation and manipulation techniques
  • Rehabilitation strategies

Contact us today to get started with a holistic plan for your specific condition.

Why choose Functional Foot & Ankle?

Unlike a lot of practices, we are mindful of your time and your wallet. We don't over-treat: we do what's needed for your recovery, and provide transparency around realistic timeframes and costs involved.

Functional Foot & Ankle is a Perth-based podiatry clinic located in Willagee and serving surrounding suburbs like (example). We use patient-specific programs to keep you pain free, so you don't end up back with the same issue over and over again.

With our holistic, personalised approach, we focus on what will work for you - we treat the root cause, not just your symptoms. Whether your goal is relief, increased movement or resuming normal activities, we can help you get there.

FAQs

Is there a difference between shockwave therapy and radial pressure wave therapy?

The majority of clinics use Radial Shockwave therapy, which is often referred to as 'shockwave therapy'.

Are there any common side effects for this therapy?

Most feel better right after their treatment; however, mild soreness, redness, or bruising can occur. These are short-term and usually settle within a couple of days. With conservative treatments, you shouldn't run into too many issues.

Does shockwave therapy hurt?

You might feel a mild discomfort or pressure during treatment, but it’s brief, adjustable, and generally well tolerated. Some people will find this more uncomfortable than others - let your podiatrist know if you're experiencing any discomfort.

How long does a session take?

Treatment itself usually takes 5–10 minutes, occuring within a standard consultation.

Can I exercise after treatment?

Take it easy for the next 24 hours where possible and modify your activity or load depending on your condition and stage of rehab. We will guide you on this.

Do I need a referral for shockwave therapy?

No referral is needed. To get started, you only need to contact our team so we can

Is shockwave therapy paid for by private health?

Some private health insurance may fund part of this treatment, but that can vary depending on your provider and plan coverage. The code is F145 to check with your health fund.

Is shockwave therapy covered by Medicare?

No, afraid not - Medicare does not currently subsidise shockwave therapy treatment.