Shockwave Therapy for Frozen Shoulder
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for frozen shoulder. It can provide pain relief, promote healing, reduce inflammation, break down scar tissue, and improve shoulder function leading to a faster recovery.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation, it can provide a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The condition can significantly limit the range of motion and can be quite painful, especially during certain movements.
If you think you have frozen shoulder 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 Frozen Shoulder
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Promotes healing and tissue repair
- Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions
- Improves range of movement
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 Frozen Shoulder
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for frozen shoulder 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 Frozen Shoulder
Improvement in Mobility
Many clients experience an improvement in shoulder mobility and a reduction in pain within a few sessions.
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.
Minimal Side Effects
The most common side effects are mild discomfort during the procedure, redness, or swelling, which usually resolve quickly.
Accelerated Healing
Focused shockwave therapy increases blood flow which enhances tissue repair and regeneration.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating frozen shoulder, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Frozen Shoulder
For fast recovery
If a quick return to normal activities, physical work or sports is necessary.
If severe pain is limiting activity
If the pain and stiffness in the shoulder are severe and significantly restrict daily activities.
When other treatments are not working
If you have a history of frozen shoulder or recurrent shoulder issues that have not responded well to standard treatments.
No injections or surgery
For those who wish to avoid corticosteroid injections or surgical interventions and are looking for a non-invasive treatment.
Capsular thickening
If imaging (such as MRI or ultrasound) shows significant capsular thickening, inflammation, or other structural issues.
If the condition is rapidly worsening despite initial standard treatments, early intervention with focused shockwave therapy might help to halt the progression and start the recovery process sooner.
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.
