What is a Physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are university trained and are experts in injury diagnosis, injury treatment, exercise prescription, injury prevention, rehabilitation and many other areas of sport and health and fitness.
What do I need to bring?
Be prepared to provide your previous medical or surgical history. If you have them and if they are relevant bring scan/MRI reports, and list of medication. You may wish to bring shorts and t-shirt.
How many visits will I need?
The number of treatments will vary depending on the problem and individual. After a thorough assessment, the physiotherapist will discuss their treatment plan for the rehabilitation process.
What should I wear to my appointment?
If we are treating your feet you will not be asked to undress but if we are treating your spine, you will be so comfortable and modest underwear or even a pair of shorts is appropriate.
Do I have to be referred by a doctor?
No, physiotherapists can assess and treat without referral by a doctor. However most health insurers require a doctors referral before they authorise cover of fees, some only require a phone call.
How many visits will I need?
The number of treatments will vary depending on the problem and individual. After a thorough assessment, the physiotherapist will discuss their treatment plan for the rehabilitation process.
During ESWT, audible high-energy sound waves, or shockwaves, are produced by a hand-held treatment device. A water-based gel is applied to the skin to facilitate transmission, and the applicator is moved in small circles over the affected area. The pressure gradually increases until reaching the therapeutic level. Unlike manual therapy or massage tools, shockwaves penetrate deeper layers of tissue.
You may experience a strong tapping sensation directly to the area of irritation during treatment, which can be moderately uncomfortable but should not cause significant pain. Your therapist will adjust the settings and pressure to ensure your comfort. The treatment is relatively quick, with each affected area receiving between 500-1000 shocks, taking approximately 8-10 minutes. Some soreness may occur afterward, but this usually resolves within 1-2 hours. It's advisable to avoid anti-inflammatory medications immediately after treatment, as inflammation is part of the healing process triggered by ESWT. Ice can be applied if necessary.
You can resume everyday activities like walking or standing immediately after treatment. Activities that may aggravate your symptoms, such as jumping or running, should be avoided for approximately 12-24 hours to prevent irritation to healing tendons. Concurrent therapy, such as rehabilitation exercises or wearing insoles, should continue as advised by your therapist.
You can resume everyday activities like walking or standing immediately after treatment. Activities that may aggravate your symptoms, such as jumping or running, should be avoided for approximately 12-24 hours to prevent irritation to healing tendons. Concurrent therapy, such as rehabilitation exercises or wearing insoles, should continue as advised by your therapist.
Ask us a Question
Feel free to ask any physical therapy related questions over the phone, or get send your question via this form below. Your message will be dispatched directly to our staff who will answer as soon as they can.