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.
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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.
I tore my rotator cuff several years ago and despite all the physio the hospital gave me and pain injections I was still left sore and frustrated. It never seemed to heal properly and exercise aggravated it. My Osteopath recommended Shock Wave Therapy.
I can safely say (without exaggeration!) that the treatment with Nim has changed my life! I booked a course and Nim explained everything really clearly, I was skeptical because nothing else had worked. I’m so grateful to Nim because I can now move freely and get back to proper exercise!
I would highly recommend Nim and the Shock Wave Therapy treatment .
I had a bad run in with sciatica earlier this year and I cannot recommend Nim enough. I couldn't sit upright or walk for more than a few minutes at a time before the pain would make me have to lie flat again, so I booked here because it was close enough to my flat that I felt like I could probably hobble over.
I'm glad I did, because Nim was fantastic. I've seen a couple of other physios a few years ago for a hamstring issue and they'd usually do a couple of sessions of massage, recommend a couple of stretches and send me off. Nim preferred to try and work out the root of my problem from the first session and came up with a treatment plan that has worked fantastically and fixed a couple of other issues that weren't bad enough for me to seek treatment. I went from bedbound with pain to being able to do normal activities pain-free, which has been a huge relief.
Thank you Nim!
As a keen tennis player, I had been suffering from painful Achilles tendinopathy with bursitis for several frustrating months.
I had spent lots of money with many physios and tried numerous treatments without much success. I was running out of ideas!
Nim’s approach to my condition was very positive, knowledgeable and caring. She explained in detail the cause of my injury and we agreed a course of treatment.
After one or two sessions with Nim’s superb Focused Shockwave Therapy machine and physio the pain had dramatically reduced.
I am now on a programme of treatments and exercises with full recovery, at last, in sight.
For Focused Shockwave Therapy and physiotherapy, I highly recommend Nim. Thank you Nim!
