Shockwave therapy is a treatment method in which powerful sound waves are directed at the painful area. These pressure waves stimulate blood flow and the tissue’s natural capacity to heal, reduce pain and can help break down calcium deposits.
Shockwave is used above all for persistent tendon and tendon-attachment problems, such as:
- heel spur (plantar fasciitis)
- Achilles tendon problems
- tennis or golfer’s elbow
- calcific shoulder and other shoulder tendon problems
- jumper’s knee
The treatment takes a few minutes and is always combined with exercise therapy and advice. On average, four to six sessions are needed to achieve a lasting result.
Is shockwave therapy reimbursed?
Shockwave therapy is not reimbursed under the Dutch basic health insurance. The treatment falls under regular physiotherapy and is reimbursed by most health insurers through supplementary insurance, provided the shockwave forms part of a physiotherapy treatment. Please note: terms differ per insurer and per policy – a few insurers do not reimburse shockwave at all. Do check your supplementary insurance in advance, or get in touch with us: we are happy to think it through with you.