Shockwave Therapy for Non-Union Fractures

Non-union fracture icon

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.

Customer Reviews

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Adrian Wallbank
Miracle cure for herniated discs

Nim's magic machine (focused shockwave) is nothing less than miraculous. I first saw Nim 2 years ago with 3 lumbar herniated and degenerated discs, degenerated facets joints and invertebratal endplate degeneration (all confirmed by MRI). The only option I was being offered was spinal fusion once I was in a wheelchair. I had just 6 sessions and I was completely cured and returned to my weightlifting. 2 years later and an accident at work and unfortunately I had new sciatica pain and a new MRI. The MRI confirned a recurring disc protrusion pressing on a nerve and I was pretty much bedridden and in extreme pain. HOWEVER, the new MRI confirmed that one of discs Nim had previously treated was now perfect and rehydrated, the facet joints were normal, the stenosis was cured and the end plates were now only "mildly" degenerated (and the others were cured). To my mind this is absolute scientific, MRI proven testimony to the effectiveness of shockwave. Nim and I are now on our 5th session and I've gone from extreme pain, unable to even wash myself, and lying on the clinic floor crying out in agony (despite very strong painkillers), to being up and about and walking each day. I'm hoping to be back to normal after a few more sessions. For anyone with disc issues seeking to avoid surgery, I can't recommend Nim highly enough! Thanks Nim!

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Emma
Excellent Service

I just recently finished treatment with Nim after suffering with plantar fasciitis and then just as I was due to begin treatment, I unfortunately sprained my foot. Nim’s knowledge and guidance was invaluable and her focused shockwave machine, a godsend. Nim was so supportive and approachable for me in a time that I found difficult both physically and mentally and she was a wonder to work with! After extensive research into other, perhaps less costly options for plantar fasciitis, I decided to bite the bullet after seeing so many great reviews and I’m so glad that I did, I’d never look back now! The treatment has delivered results even better than I could have hoped! Thank you so much Nim !

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Yass
Muhammad Yasir

I play semi-professional cricket and was struggling with a tennis elbow injury. At first, I wasn’t sure if treatment would work, but after receiving care from NIM, I’m genuinely impressed with the results. She guided me with confidence, which really helped boost my own belief in the recovery process.

After just four weeks, the improvement was remarkable. I’m now back playing cricket pain-free. I truly appreciate her support and expertise — highly recommended! Coming from Manchester every week definitely worth for me .

Thank you so much, NIM!

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Liam Richards
Nim has been great!

I've been struggling with quadricep tendinopathy for some time, and after receiving shockwave therapy from Nim, I’ve finally been cured! Her treatment was professional, effective, and tailored to my needs. I'm now pain-free, I highly recommend her expertise!

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Iain
Fantastic and caring therapy from Nim

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!