Shockwave Therapy for Non-Union Fractures
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a non-invasive option for treating non-union fractures, offering benefits such as enhanced bone healing, reduced pain, and potentially avoiding more invasive surgical procedures.
By stimulating bone regeneration, improving blood flow, and reducing inflammation, shockwave therapy can significantly improve outcomes for clients struggling with non-union fractures. It is most effective when combined with a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the client’s specific needs and condition.
While shockwave therapy is effective for many non-union fractures, it may not work for all cases, especially in cases where there is a large gap between the bone fragments or severe infection.
How does it work? | Treatment protocol | Benefits | When to consider fSWT
What Is A Non-Union Fracture?
Non-union fractures are fractures that fail to heal properly after a significant amount of time, typically six to nine months. They may cause persistent pain, disability, and a significant reduction in the quality of life.
Several factors can contribute to this condition:
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Poor Blood Supply
Insufficient blood flow to the fracture site can impede healing.
Infection
An infection at the fracture site can prevent proper healing.
Insufficient Stabilisation
Lack of proper immobilisation or excessive movement can hinder the healing process.
Smoking
Smoking negatively impacts blood flow and can impair bone healing.
Co-morbidities
Conditions such as diabetes or osteoporosis can delay or prevent healing.
If you think you have a non-union fracture 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 Non-Union Fractures
- Stimulates bone healing
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Promotes bone formation
- Stimulates cells
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 Non-Union Fractures
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy for non-union fractures 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 Non-Union Fractures
Accelerated Healing
Many clients experience significant improvements in bone healing, with X-rays showing callus formation and eventual union of the fracture.
Pain Reduction
Clients often report reduced pain after a few sessions, which can improve mobility and quality of life.
Avoidance of Surgery
Focused shockwave therapy can reduce the need for surgical intervention, such as bone grafting or internal fixation, which are common treatments for non-union fractures.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating non-union fractures, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Non-Union Fractures
Persistent pain is reducing mobility
If experiencing persistent pain or limited function that affects daily activities, or if prolonged immobilisation is not advisable or practical.
Risk factors
If you have risk factors such as poor circulation, smoking, diabetes, or osteoporosis that increase the likelihood of non-union.
Slow healing
If imaging shows that the fracture fragments are well-aligned but there are no clear signs of healing progression, or if the fracture exhibits minimal callus formation or delayed healing signs within the initial weeks.
Early use of shockwave therapy can stimulate bone growth, improve blood circulation, and enhance the activity of osteoblasts, promoting callus formation and ultimately accelerating the healing process to prevent the need for surgical intervention.
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.
