Shockwave Therapy Seaforth

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an umbrella term used to describe any form of shockwave therapy that is delivered externally to the body.

Radial shockwave therapy is a frequently used form of this treatment, delivering radial pressure waves outward from the treatment site. It is commonly applied in the management of a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

Mild discomfort or tingling in the treated area during or after treatment is not uncommon. In most cases, this tends to ease as treatment progresses over a few sessions.

A standard shockwave therapy session generally takes around 10 to 15 minutes for one area, or approximately 20 minutes when two areas are being treated.

At your first appointment, your physiotherapist will review your medical history and carry out a brief assessment of the affected area. Ultrasound gel is applied to the treatment site before the shockwave device is moved gently over the area.

Many people find the experience uncomplicated and are welcome to leave straight after their session.

In the majority of cases, you may be able to resume your usual activities straight after your session.

For soft tissue injuries, four to six sessions may be sufficient to help support recovery and assist in managing pain, though this can vary depending on the individual and their condition.

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive approach that some individuals explore before considering more invasive surgical options. Whether it may be appropriate for your situation will depend on your individual condition and medical history.

Depending on your private health insurance cover, shockwave treatment may be claimable through your fund.

For certain individuals, particularly those with minor soft tissue injuries, shockwave therapy may be suitable as a standalone treatment. However, for more long-standing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, your physiotherapist may recommend incorporating it alongside other treatments such as physical therapy or dry needling.

For those who have been relying on pain relief medication or have undergone other treatments without sustained improvement, shockwave therapy may be worth discussing with your physiotherapist.

The cost of shockwave therapy will vary depending on the clinic and your individual treatment needs. At DX Physio, we recommend reaching out to us directly for up-to-date pricing. Our team is happy to help you understand your options, including any potential private health insurance coverage.

In Australia, Medicare coverage for shockwave therapy is generally not available, as the treatment is typically considered elective and does not currently appear on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).

There are some limited circumstances in which Medicare rebates may apply, particularly where chronic conditions are being managed through an Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) or Chronic Disease Management plan.

If arranged by your GP and you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to access up to five subsidised allied health sessions per calendar year, which may include shockwave therapy if it forms part of your personalised care plan.

We serve patients in Sydney from areas including: