"Focused Shockwave Therapy: A Promising Treatment for Osteoarthritis"

Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that affects millions of people around the world, and it is particularly prevalent among older adults. It can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, which can have a significant impact on quality of life. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are a number of treatment options available that can help to manage symptoms and improve function. One such treatment is focused shockwave therapy which has been used to treat a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis.

How Focused Shockwave Therapy Works for Osteoarthritis

Focused shockwave therapy works by delivering high energy soundwaves to stimulate the body's natural healing process. These high-energy sound waves promote the growth of new blood vessels and increase blood flow to the affected area, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote tissue regeneration. The therapy also stimulates stem cells, growth factors and the production of collagen, which is an important component of connective tissue.

During the treatment, the handheld device is placed over the affected area and a series of high-energy sound waves are delivered to the tissue. The treatment is non-invasive and does not require anesthesia. Most patients 4 sessions of focused shockwave therapy to achieve optimal results.

Evidence and Studies on Focused Shockwave Therapy for Osteoarthritis

There have been a number of studies on the use of focused shockwave therapy for osteoarthritis, and the results have been promising. For example, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research found that focused shockwave therapy significantly reduced pain and improved function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine found that focused shockwave therapy improved pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with hip osteoarthritis.

A meta-analysis of several studies on the use of shockwave therapy for knee osteoarthritis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research concluded that focused shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for knee osteoarthritis. The study found that shockwave therapy significantly reduced pain and improved function, and that the effects lasted for up to six months after treatment.

Conclusion

Focused shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for osteoarthritis, particularly for knee and hip osteoarthritis. The therapy works by promoting tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow to the affected area. Studies have shown that focused shockwave therapy significantly reduces pain and improves function in patients with osteoarthritis, and the effects can last for up to six months after treatment. If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, speak to our physiotherapist and shockwave experts about whether focused shockwave therapy may be an appropriate treatment option for you at our Liverpool clinic.

Extracorporeal shockwave treatment in knee osteoarthritis: therapeutic effects and possible mechanism https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7670564/

The efficacy of shock wave therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis and popliteal cyamella https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1607551X1400076X