Within the treatment umbrella known as Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, the best-known treatments for many complaints of the foot & heel, the sub type RADIAL Shock Wave Therapy (r-SWT) exists.
The Radial type of SWT as the most cost effective and most typical seen in smaller therapy clinics in Wimbledon and London. But what is it and how does it differ from it's conterpart Foucsed Shock Wave Therapy.
This type of shock wave therapy works like a WIFi signal. Radial Shock Wave therapy is most effective at its source, which means it stimulates the repair of tissues that can be positioned close to its applicator head/ 'tip-of-the-gun'.
So anything with thin skin surrounding the injured issues (heel bone, achilles tendons) are great areas. But something with lots of muscle, like a hip, could be better for this type of shock wave therapy.
Traits Of Radial Shock Wave Therapy
Radial Shock Wave Therapy devices tend to look like guns, typically about 20 cm long.
This long shape is because they have a projectile that rapidly slams itself against the applicator top. This projectile stays inside the handpiece but is essential to create a sound wave or shock wave that emanates from the applicator.
This design has issues/flaws as the projectile slowly deforms, and the units require regular maintenance. The deforming/ slow wear-and-tear can mean a client can have inconsistent results.
