Shockwave Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for rotator cuff tendinopathy, providing pain relief, promoting tendon healing, and improving shoulder function with minimal downtime. It is an excellent option for clients seeking a faster recovery, or to avoid surgery, or for those who have not found relief through other traditional treatments.
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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy?
Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a condition characterised by pain and dysfunction in the shoulder due to inflammation or degeneration of the tendons that make up the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their associated tendons, which stabilise the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of shoulder movements especially internal rotation (hand in back pocket) and external rotation (hand behind head). Tendinopathy in this area often results from repetitive overhead activities, aging, or trauma.
If you think you have a rotator cuff tendinopathy 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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Stimulates tendon healing and repair
- Breaks down scar tissue
- Improves shoulder function and mobility
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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for rotator cuff tendinopathy 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 Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating rotator cuff tendinopathy, reducing the need for invasive procedures and minimising the associated risks.
Effective Pain Relief
Many clients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions, allowing them to return to normal activities with reduced discomfort.
Enhanced Healing
By promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, shockwave therapy accelerates the healing process, leading to faster recovery times compared to traditional treatments.
Reduced Dependence on Medication
Effective pain management through shockwave therapy can decrease the need for pain medication or anti-inflammatory medication, reducing potential side effects.
Improved Functionality
As the tendon heals and strength is restored, clients often regain full use of their shoulder, enabling them to return to sports or other activities that were previously painful.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating rotator cuff tendinopathy, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for a Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Collapsible content
Quick recovery
If there is a need for quick recovery, such as an upcoming event, competition, or work-related requirement.
Intense pain is limiting mobility
If the pain is intense and significantly limits your shoulder mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
History of tendinopathy
If you have a history of rotator cuff tendinopathy or other shoulder issues that have been resistant to standard treatments.
Calcific deposits
If diagnostic imaging (e.g., MRI, ultrasound) shows significant tendon degeneration, calcific deposits, or other abnormalities.
Rapid degeneration
If the symptoms have rapidly worsened despite other forms of treatment.
Non surgical
For individuals looking to avoid corticosteroid injections or surgical options.
Focused shockwave therapy applied early can stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain, potentially preventing the condition from progressing to chronic tendon degeneration.
No commitment, pressure or obligation! Book your FREE 30 minute phone consultation online now or call us for a quick chat.
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.
I tore my rotator cuff several years ago and despite all the physio the hospital gave me and pain injections I was still left sore and frustrated. It never seemed to heal properly and exercise aggravated it. My Osteopath recommended Shock Wave Therapy.
I can safely say (without exaggeration!) that the treatment with Nim has changed my life! I booked a course and Nim explained everything really clearly, I was skeptical because nothing else had worked. I’m so grateful to Nim because I can now move freely and get back to proper exercise!
I would highly recommend Nim and the Shock Wave Therapy treatment .
I had a bad run in with sciatica earlier this year and I cannot recommend Nim enough. I couldn't sit upright or walk for more than a few minutes at a time before the pain would make me have to lie flat again, so I booked here because it was close enough to my flat that I felt like I could probably hobble over.
I'm glad I did, because Nim was fantastic. I've seen a couple of other physios a few years ago for a hamstring issue and they'd usually do a couple of sessions of massage, recommend a couple of stretches and send me off. Nim preferred to try and work out the root of my problem from the first session and came up with a treatment plan that has worked fantastically and fixed a couple of other issues that weren't bad enough for me to seek treatment. I went from bedbound with pain to being able to do normal activities pain-free, which has been a huge relief.
Thank you Nim!
As a keen tennis player, I had been suffering from painful Achilles tendinopathy with bursitis for several frustrating months.
I had spent lots of money with many physios and tried numerous treatments without much success. I was running out of ideas!
Nim’s approach to my condition was very positive, knowledgeable and caring. She explained in detail the cause of my injury and we agreed a course of treatment.
After one or two sessions with Nim’s superb Focused Shockwave Therapy machine and physio the pain had dramatically reduced.
I am now on a programme of treatments and exercises with full recovery, at last, in sight.
For Focused Shockwave Therapy and physiotherapy, I highly recommend Nim. Thank you Nim!
