Shockwave Therapy for Dupuytren's Contracture
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a non-invasive treatment option for Dupuytren's Contracture that, when combined with physiotherapy, reduces fibrotic tissue, improves hand function and potentially slows disease progression.
It is particularly beneficial for clients seeking to avoid surgery or those in the early stages of the condition. It can also be used to break down scar tissue formation that occurs post-surgery.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Dupuytren's Contracture?
Dupuytren's Contracture is a hand condition that involves the abnormal thickening of the palmar fascia, a fibrous layer of tissue beneath the skin of the palm. As the condition progresses, nodules and cords of tissue form, which can pull the fingers into a bent position. The exact cause of Dupuytren's Contracture is not well understood, but it is believed to have a genetic component and may be influenced by environmental factors like repetitive hand trauma or certain medical conditions.
If you think you have Dupuytren's Contracture 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 Dupuytren's Contracture
- Softens fibrous tissue
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Improves circulation and tissue healing
- Enhances hand function
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 Dupuytren's Contracture
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for Dupuytren's Contracture usually involves 5 to 8 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 Dupuytren's Contracture
Non-Invasive
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option, which is particularly appealing for clients who wish to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.
Pain Reduction
Focused shockwave therapy provides significant pain relief, improving the client’s quality of life and ability to use their hands for daily activities.
Potential Disease Progression Halt
By addressing the underlying tissue abnormalities, focused shockwave therapy may slow or halt the progression of Dupuytren's Contracture, reducing the need for more invasive treatments in the future.
Improved Hand Function
Clients often experience an improvement in hand mobility and strength, making it easier to perform tasks that were previously difficult due to the contracture.
Minimal Side Effects
Focused shockwave therapy is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects and no need for extensive recovery time.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating Dupuytren's Contracture, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Dupuytren's Contracture
Early intervention
For early stages of Dupuytren's Contracture when the nodules and cords are still developing, and the contracture is mild.
Significant impairment
If the condition is causing significant functional impairment in daily activities, such as difficulty grasping objects, typing, or performing manual tasks.
Rapid progression
If the contracture is rapidly progressing, causing noticeable bending of the fingers and limiting hand function.
To avoid invasive treatment
For those who prefer to avoid more invasive treatments such as needle aponeurotomy or collagenase injections
Palmar fascia thickening
If diagnostic imaging reveals significant thickening of the palmar fascia or nodules that are likely to progress.
To avoid surgery
If elderly or those with co-morbidities who are considered high-risk for surgery due to anesthesia or other health concerns.
Focused shockwave therapy may soften the fibrous tissue in the palm and fingers when introduced early, potentially slowing the progression of contractures and improving hand function.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
Received 6 weeks treat on shoulder and I was very pleased with the outcome, Nim gave me guidance on further work after treatment which to strengthen both shoulders next and hips.
Excellent!!!!
I first found Nim and her Shockwaves treatment in 2020 when I had severe Plantar Fasciitis in one foot - I couldn’t walk at all, it was horrendous. She had me back on my feet with Shockwaves treatment and specially made insoles.
Then last October I had a bad fall and broke two vertebrae in my upper back and damaged the surrounding muscles - I was in total agony. Thankfully I was able to see Nim, and after having Shockwaves treatment for a few weeks the pain was more or less gone. She also gave me stretching exercises etc.
I will always return to Nim whenever I need to. I say she has “magic hands” as she finds the problem immediately and her massages are second to none!
I highly recommend her as she’s also a really lovely person.
I am delighted with the results on my Dupuytren's nodule. After 5 sessions of shockwave therapy with Nim, the nodule in my hand has reduced to a fraction of its size, it is no longer painful and is not pulling my finger in. It was a massive relief to find a treatment that can be done early for this condition and without the need for invasive painful surgery, injections or radiation. Several weeks after the treatment finished it is still continuing to improve. Shockwave therapy does feels a bit strange and uncomfortable at first but you very quickly get used to it and I had no ill effects from the treatment. I can highly recommend Nim and shockwave therapy.
I’ve been seeing Nim since 2019 for various badminton-related injuries, and I can’t recommend her enough! Not only is she incredibly knowledgeable and professional, but she always takes the time to explain exactly what she’s doing and why. I really appreciate her approach—she believes that the more you know, the better you can take care of yourself, and I’ve learned so much from her over the years.
Nim is also a shockwave treatment specialist, and I’ve recommended her to many of my badminton colleagues, especially those who could benefit from this particular therapy. Her friendly demeanor combined with her expertise makes every session comfortable and effective. If you’re in need of physiotherapy or considering shockwave treatment, Nim is definitely the person to see!
My Morton's Neuroma : NHS cortisone injections made no difference to my painful stiff and inflamed foot pad. I did not want surgery so found Shockwave and Nim. She gave me a very thorough examination and identified issues with my spine and hips that did not help. After a series of Shockwave treatments and advice on stretching, my right foot improved becoming soft and much less painful. I decided to have a follow up series of treatment this summer. Although not cured, compared to 2 years ago when I could not walk for more than 10 minutes if at all, I can now be on my feet wslking for hours. Plus the stretching advice and motivation has helped with my hip mobility too.
