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.
I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain and sciatica for years, and after trying countless treatments, I finally found real relief here. Nim has been fantastic from start to finish — professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. I recently had a series of shockwave therapy sessions combined with physiotherapy, and the results have been impressive. I’ve noticed a real reduction in pain and stiffness, and I’m finally able to move more freely again. Highly recommended to anyone struggling with long-term back issues!
I can't recommend Nim enough - she isn't just a shockwave therapist (which is an amazing type of therapy in itself) but she's also a very practised and knowledgeable physiotherapist. I've been to conventional physio (both private and on the NHS) and nothing has looked at actually solving the problem that causes the pain, leading to a worsening condition of the joint itself and ever increasing pain. Nim has stopped all of that, and been able to use a holistic approach and combine it with shockwave and her specialist knowledge to treat the problem, not just the symptoms. I regret the years spent with other treatments and wish I had found her sooner!
I have known Nim now for two years and her treatment and expertise with her shock wave machine has been exceptionally good. First and foremost, Nim is very knowledgeable about her profession with vast experience in the areas of physiotherapy and shock wave treatment. More recently I have been treated with various problems on my legs mainly tendonopathy/tendonosis around my Achilles and hamstrings /thighs. The treatment is excellent, Nim explains the problems clearly and offers advice and consultation throughout the two months I’ve been seeing her. I’m very grateful as I have had pain for several years and can finally see a path forward without pain. I can highly recommend her and her treatment/facilities!! And thank you Nim!
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
My trigger finger bothered me so much that I could not use my right hand. After receiving treatment from Nim for just 5 times, I regained 90% of the function. Then I waited another month for it to recover, my hand is almost completely normal now.
