Radial Shockwave for Chronic Hamstring Strain

Radial Shockwave for Chronic Hamstring Strain

Chronic hamstring strain can put a damper on walking, running, and even bending over to pick stuff off the floor. Chronic hamstring tendinopathy is often an overuse syndrome that is typically managed by non-operative methods, such as rest, ice, stretching, and strengthening. However, if self-treatment does not help, Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) may be a good option for you.

Recent Research

One recent study in the USA compared the outcomes of participants treated with RSWT to those treated with conventional conservative treatment. Volunteer participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to either an active shockwave therapy or conventional treatment group, which was comprised of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy, and an exercise program.

Patients were evaluated before treatment, and 1 week and 3, 6, 12 months after treatment discontinuation. The primary outcome measures were the visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain and the Nirschi phase rating scale (NPRS).  At 3 months after treatment, 85% in the Shockwave Therapy Group achieved a reduction of at least 50% in pain. This was compared to only 10% in the conventional group. There were no serious complications in the Shockwave Group.

The clinical conclusion from the research is that RSWT is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with chronic  hamstring strain.

Radial Shockwave for other Problems

Radial Shockwave therapy has proved to be effective in many other chronic tendinopathies, including but not limited to medial and lateral epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis, and infra-patellar tendonitis.

RSWT at Capilano Rehab

Capilano Rehab Centre has been a recognized provider of Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) for over ten years. We were one of the original rehabilitation medicine groups in Western Canada to offer RSWT and have successfully helped hundreds of patients find relief from chronic heel, elbow, shoulder, knee, and hip pain. Capilano uses a state-of-the-art Swiss-Dolorclast ® RSWT system and has recently added RSWT applicators that can treat upper chronic hamstring strains even more effectively.

If you are experiencing problems with your hamstring,  and you feel that RSWT may be of benefit, you are welcome to give Capilano a call at 780-466-1104 to book an evaluation appointment with one of our staff physiotherapists.

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