Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is an effective treatment for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), particularly for those seeking a faster recovery, or have not found relief through traditional methods.
By targeting the underlying causes of CPPS, such as nerve sensitivity, muscle tension, and inflammation, shockwave therapy can help reduce pain and improve quality of life.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)?
CPPS is a complex condition with symptoms including persistent pelvic pain, urinary difficulties, sexual dysfunction, and discomfort in the lower abdomen, perineum, and genital area, typically lasting more than six months. The exact cause is often unclear, and it can be associated with:
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Inflammation
In the pelvic region, although not in every case.
Muscle Dysfunction
Pelvic floor muscle tension or dysfunction is a common contributor.
Nerve Involvement
Nerve entrapment or hypersensitivity in the pelvic area.
Psychosomatic Factors
Stress, anxiety, and depression can exacerbate the symptoms.
CPPS is commonly divided into two types:
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Type IIIA (Inflammatory)
Where signs of inflammation are present in the prostate or pelvic region.
Type IIIB (Non-inflammatory)
Where no signs of inflammation are found, but pain and discomfort persist.
If you think you have CPPS and would like some advice then book your FREE phone consultation online now, drop us an email or phone us on 07760 536155 for a quick chat.
How Focused Shockwave Therapy Treats CPPS
- Provides pain relief
- Improves blood flow
- Provides anti-inflammatory effects
- Promotes tissue healing
Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or drop us an email to find out more about how we can help.
Treatment Protocol for Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for CPPS usually involves 6 to 12 sessions, spaced about one week apart. Each session lasts 30 minutes. The exact number of sessions may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the client’s response to treatment.
Intensity And Frequency
The intensity and frequency of the shockwaves are carefully adjusted based on the client’s pain tolerance and the characteristics of the condition.
Minimal Downtime
Clients can usually resume normal activities immediately after treatment, although they will be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a short period if possible.
Post-Treatment Sensation
Some clients may experience mild soreness or swelling in the treated area. This typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for CPPS
Pain Reduction
Many clients report a significant reduction in pain after a few sessions, with ongoing improvements over the course of treatment.
Improved Functionality
Clients often experience an improvement in urinary function, sexual health, and overall
pelvic comfort.
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy is a non-surgical treatment, avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgical intervention.
Accelerated Healing
Focused shockwave therapy promotes faster healing of the area, often reducing overall
recovery time compared to other treatments.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating CPPS, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for CPPS
Trigger points
For those with identifiable myofascial trigger points in the pelvic floor muscles which are tight bands or 'knots'of muscle that can contribute to pain and discomfort.
Avoid or reduce medication
If unable to tolerate medications typically used in CPPS treatment due to side effects or contraindications.
Severe pelvic pain
If experiencing persistent, severe pelvic pain that significantly impacts quality of life, daily activities, or mental health, and other standard treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
Persistent symptoms
If CPPS symptoms persist despite the use of first-line treatments such as medications (e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, alpha-blockers), and lifestyle modifications.
History of condition
Those with a long history of CPPS (typically more than 3-6 months) and those who have experienced recurrent symptoms can benefit from fSWT as a way to break the cycle of chronic pain and dysfunction.
Avoid surgery
For clients who are hesitant to undergo more invasive procedures, such as nerve blocks or surgeries.
Early intervention with focused shockwave therapy can help reduce pain and improve pelvic floor function by promoting tissue healing and improving blood flow in affected areas.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
Having previously tried radial shockwave treatment, which was painful (due to the hammering action) and ineffective, I did some research and decided to try FSWT. I noticed an immediate pain reduction in relation to my plantar fasciitis, which had been persistent for over 6 months. The improvement to my knee pain came more gradually, but it had been an issue for many years. But after 5 treatments I was almost pain free. Nim was very professional and friendly and also offered advice on when to avoid and start normal activities and also included stretching programmes. I'm glad I made the investment and managed to get myself back to my outdoor hobbies before summer.
After almost two years of either living in (sometimes debilitating) pain with plantar fasciitis (PF) and not doing anything about it or having some unproductive and even counterproductive osteopathy and physiotherapy sessions/advice, I did some research into best treatments for PF and found Nim's focussed shockwave therapy (FSWT).
After 3 sets of FSWT sessions I'm now almost pain free, and I'm certain that a few more sessions will completely eradicate the PF. Unfortunately, at the end of last year I was hit with painful sciatica, and an MRI confirmed that I have two herniated discs (HDs). Nim advised me that FSWT works wonders with HDs, and since this is now my main complaint, we decided to focus on the sciatica, and will then intercalate the PF treatment. I'm feeling very positive about it!
Nim is a very knowledgeable, competent and professional physiotherapist, and an incredibly kind and caring person. She is always patient and keeps reassuring me every time I get frustrated. In addition to the FSWT sessions, I was given a tailored home stretch and self-treatment programme, both for the PF and for the HDs/sciatica.
I cannot recommend Nim and her magical machine enough! Thank you for everything, Nim :)
I came to Nim several months ago frustrated and in pain with a herniated disc what just wasn't healing. I arrived with restricted movement and pain everyday, even when I coughed of sneezed! I paid for 2 sets of shockwave therapy and it is the first time in a year where I feel like myself again. She not only provided the treatment but also was kind, and incredibly reassuring in my moments of frustration. Thank you for everything!
I had started to develop pain in the ball of my foot when I ran and then the pain continued when I walked. I went to the docs and got a diagnosis of a mortons neuroma. After trying various ways to manage the pain, I did some research and found Nim's focussed shockwave therapy. It was a tough commitment to come to 5 sessions in London when I live in Redcar (North East of England) but totally worth it. The pain I had when I run has gone and hopefully it won't come back as I start to increase my distance and frequency.
I 100% recommend Nim, she is such a lovely caring person and made me feel very comfortable during the treatment and also gave me plenty of good advice ☺️
I was struggling with bi-lateral achilles tendinopathy and retrocalcaneal bursitis which was impacting my ability to play sport. Over a number of sessions the Shockwave reduced the swelling, scar-tissue and most importantly the pain and both issues are now completely resolved. I also found Nim extremely professional and really nice to deal with. Recommended.
