Shockwave Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Non-Invasive Solution for Pain Relief

Knee pain can be debilitating, especially if it’s caused by osteoarthritis (OA). Knee OA affects millions worldwide, causing stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Traditional treatments like medication, injections, or surgery aren’t always ideal, which is why many patients are turning to shockwave therapy (ESWT) as a safe, non-invasive alternative.

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage in the knee gradually wears away. This can lead to:

• Persistent pain and stiffness

• Swelling and inflammation

• Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities

OA often develops over time due to age, previous injuries, obesity, or repetitive stress on the knee.

How Shockwave Therapy Helps Knee OA

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses high-energy sound waves delivered to the knee joint to stimulate healing and reduce pain. Its key effects include:

• Stimulating cartilage repair: ESWT can promote chondrocyte activity and collagen production, supporting joint health.

• Reducing inflammation: Shockwaves help decrease inflammatory mediators in the joint.

• Pain relief: By modulating pain pathways and improving blood flow, ESWT reduces chronic knee pain.

• Improving function: Many patients experience better mobility and range of motion after treatment.

Evidence Supporting Shockwave Therapy for Knee OA

Several clinical studies highlight the effectiveness of ESWT for knee OA:

• A 2020 systematic review (International Journal of Surgery) found that shockwave therapy significantly reduced pain and improved knee function compared to placebo or conventional treatments.

• A 2017 randomized controlled trial (Clinical Rehabilitation) showed that combining ESWT with physiotherapy was more effective for pain relief and function improvement than physiotherapy alone.

• Another study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine (2018) reported that ESWT improved walking ability and patient-reported outcomes in mild to moderate knee OA.

These studies suggest that shockwave therapy is a reliable, evidence-based option for managing knee OA symptoms, especially in mild to moderate cases.

What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy

Treatment is quick and straightforward:

1. The knee is assessed, and a gel is applied to the treatment area.

2. A handheld device delivers focused shockwaves to the joint.

3. Sessions typically last 10–15 minutes, with most patients requiring 3–6 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart.

4. Mild discomfort, redness, or swelling may occur temporarily.

Who Can Benefit from Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is most effective for patients with mild to moderate knee OA who:

• Want to avoid injections or surgery

• Have persistent pain despite conventional therapy

• Are seeking improved mobility and function

It is not recommended for:

• Severe, end-stage OA

• Patients with blood clotting disorders

• Those with infections or tumors near the knee

Combining Shockwave Therapy with Physiotherapy

For best results, ESWT is often combined with:

• Targeted physiotherapy exercises

• Strengthening and mobility training

• Weight management strategies (if needed)

This combination accelerates recovery, improves joint function, and helps patients return to daily activities faster.

Book Shockwave Therapy for Knee OA in Auckland

At Care Rehab Physio, we provide professional shockwave therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Our treatments are evidence-based, tailored to your needs, and designed to reduce pain while improving mobility.