Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
Focused shockwave therapy (fSWT) is a highly effective non-invasive treatment option for shoulder impingement. It can provide pain relief, promote healing, reduce inflammation, break down scar tissue, and improve shoulder function leading to a faster recovery.
When combined with other physiotherapy modalities such as manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, and ergonomic advice, it provides 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 Shoulder Impingement?
Shoulder impingement occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles or bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction) in the shoulder become compressed or "impinged" during arm movement. This can lead to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. This condition is often caused by overhead activities and lifting objects away from the body.
If you think you have shoulder impingement 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 Shoulder Impingement
- Reduces pain
- Promotes tissue healing
- Breaks down scar tissue
- Reduces inflammation
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 Shoulder Impingement
Typical Course
A course of shockwave therapy and physiotherapy for shoulder impingement 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 Shoulder Impingement
Non-Invasive and Safe
Focused shockwave therapy offers a non-surgical option for treating shoulder impingement, 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 may decrease the need for pain medicatio or anti-inflammatory medication, reducing potential side effects.
Improved Functionality
As the inflammation and scar tissue is reduced and strength is restored, clients often regain full use of their shoulder, enabling them to return to activities that were previously painful.
High Success Rate
Clinical studies and/or client outcomes indicate that shockwave therapy is highly effective in treating shoulder impingement, especially in cases where other traditional treatments have failed.
When to Consider Shockwave Therapy for Shoulder Impingement
Fast recovery
If there is an urgent need to return to regular activities, physical work or sports.
Contributary conditions
When conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy, subacromial bursitis, or chronic shoulder tendinitis contribute to impingement as these conditions can respond well to shockwave therapy.
Chronic or recurring
If the shoulder impingement symptoms are chronic or tend to recur even after periods of improvement, or there is underlying tissue damage that has not fully healed.
Calcium deposits
If imaging investigations (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) show calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons (calcific tendonitis).
To avoid surgery
If there is a preference to avoid surgical intervention like arthroscopic surgery.
To avoid or reduce medication
For those who wish to avoid or minimise the use of medications, such as anti-inflammatories or corticosteroid injections, due to potential side effects.
Early intervention with focused shockwave therapy may relieve pain and inflammation, promoting healing of irritated tissues and improving shoulder function before more invasive treatments are needed.
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.
