Extra corporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a relatively new high tech treatment which has a strong evidence base (approved by NICE) in the following conditions
Plantar Fasciitis
Achilles Tendinopathy
Patellar Tendinopathy
Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Calcific Tendinopathy Of The Supraspinatus
Tennis/Golfer Elbow
It has also been used successfully in other problems including Osgood-Schlatters disease, mild to moderate arthritic knee pain, frozen shoulder and more.
It was used originally to break down kidney and gall stones using powerful sonic shocks. More recently it has been found to have a beneficial effect in many musculoskeletal conditions by stimulating stem cells and growth factors as well as dispersing neurotransmitters for pain. Usually a course of treatment is required of 3 to 5 sessions with specific exercises to back up the treatment. The cost of a course of treatment is £200 to £300 depending on number of sessions required