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.
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.
