Shockwave Therapy for Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a non-invasive treatment option for Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS), particularly for clients seeking a faster recovery, or who have not found relief with other treatments.
By reducing pain, improving blood flow, and stimulating tissue healing, shockwave therapy can significantly improve symptoms and enhance quality of life for those suffering from MPS.
It is most effective as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physiotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and other supportive measures.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is Myofascial Pain Syndrome?
Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) is a chronic pain disorder characterised by the presence of trigger points (tight, sensitive knots) in the muscles that can cause pain in other parts of the body (referred pain). MPS is often related to muscle overuse, injury, or stress, leading to pain and discomfort that can significantly affect a person's quality of life. Symptoms of MPS include: persistent or worsening muscle pain, tenderness in the muscles, limited range of motion, stiffness or weakness, or sleep disturbance due to pain.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome involves:
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Trigger Points
These are hyper-irritable spots in skeletal muscle that are associated with palpable nodules in taut bands of muscle fibres.
Referred Pain
The pain can radiate from trigger points to other areas of the body.
If you think you have MPS 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 Myofascial Pain Syndrome
- Provides pain relief
- Improves blood flow
- Stimulates tissue healing
- Restores muscle 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 Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for MPS 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 or high-impact 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 Myofascial Pain Syndrome
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain reduction after just a few sessions, improving their quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
Accelerated Healing
Shockwave therapy promotes faster healing, potentially reducing the need for more invasive treatments like surgery.
Improved Muscle Function
Restoration of muscle function and range of motion is a common outcome, allowing clients to return to normal activities with less discomfort.
Long Term Relief
Regular sessions can lead to long-term relief from the chronic pain associated with MPS, reducing the need for other pain management strategies.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating MPS, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Myofascial Pain Syndrome
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Severe pain is restricting function
If MPS is causing severe pain, muscle tightness, or restricted movement, significantly impacting your ability to perform everyday activities or work.
Contributory factors
If you have other musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., neck or back pain) that are making MPS worse, leading to more severe or persistent symptoms.
Slow recovery
If recovery from MPS is progressing more slowly than expected, and there is ongoing muscle discomfort or restricted movement.
To avoid injections
If you prefer to avoid invasive treatments such as trigger point injections and are seeking a non-invasive approach.
Recurrent condition
If you have experienced recurrent or long-term MPS, with symptoms returning despite previous treatment efforts.
Traditional treatments ineffective
If you continue to experience ongoing muscle pain and discomfort despite using typical treatments such as rest, stretching, massage, dry needling, standalone physiotherapy or anti-inflammatory medications for several weeks.
Early intervention with shockwave therapy can accelerate healing by reducing pain, breaking down trigger points, and improving blood flow, thereby preventing the condition from becoming chronic and leading to more complex issues.
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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.
